OBSTETRIC VIOLENCE, RACISM, AND BIOETHICS: UNVEILING DISPARITIES IN WOMEN'S HEALTHCARE

Abstract

Gender violence reflects the persistence of inequalities and abuses based on social and cultural constructs. One facet of this type of violence, obstetric violence, occurs within healthcare services and is manifested through dehumanized care, abuse, and negligence. Black women are particularly affected, reflecting structural and institutional racism that contributes to higher rates of maternal mortality within this group. This article discusses obstetric violence and other forms of oppression that intersect with it, from the perspective of protective and interventionist bioethics, aiming to propose reflections that contribute to transforming healthcare practices and building a more inclusive, equitable, and respectful healthcare system for all women.