PREGNANT WOMEN IN THE BRAZILIAN PRISON SYSTEM

Abstract

This book aimed to discuss motherhood within the female prison system, raising important discussions about the basic rights of pregnant and postpartum women in detention. There are established guidelines for providing healthcare to pregnant women in prisons. The responsibility for providing healthcare to these women falls on prison management. Thirteen guidelines related to this topic were identified. Most of them are linked to organizations based in the United States of America (USA). The coexistence of pregnant and postpartum women in the prison environment offers important benefits, such as mutual emotional support and a reduction in feelings of insecurity. This is justified by the relevance of special cells to meet the needs of these women. The objective is to implement public policies focused on maternal and child health, which is essential in prison institutions. The methodology adopted was a qualitative literature review of materials already produced on pregnant women in the prison system. The data from this study highlight the extremely precarious social conditions faced by mothers who gave birth while incarcerated. Brazil ranks fourth in the world, with approximately 30,625 incarcerated women. There is a lack of in-depth discussions and sufficient information regarding the fulfillment of the rights of incarcerated women during these vulnerable periods. The institutions of preventive detention and house arrest are widely applied in Brazil. This study aims to problematize the experience of motherhood within women's prisons. Incarcerated women should be treated with humanity and respect. Upon serving their sentence, they should be prepared to reintegrate into society. It is crucial to confront the patriarchal system that perpetuates violations and ignores the particularities of incarcerated women. A large proportion of these women enter the prison system already pregnant. This study contributes to a more in-depth analysis of this context and to future research that brings historical and social visibility to the women who remain hidden and silenced by the prison system.