ENTRE ALGORITMOS Y AGUJAS: LA VIOLENCIA OBSTÉTRICA EN LA ERA DE LA BIOPOLÍTICA DIGITAL

Abstract

Obstetric violence is characterized by abusive practices, physical, psychological, or symbolic, occurring during the pregnancy-puerperal cycle, constituting a violation of human rights. Historically normalized through the medicalization of childbirth in the 20th century, it subordinated women to medical authority and restricted their autonomy. Research indicates a high prevalence of non-consensual procedures, verbal humiliation, and unnecessary cesarean sections, disproportionately affecting Black and marginalized women. Despite international recognition of the phenomenon as a human rights violation, Brazilian legislation has not yet formally typified obstetric violence, although proposals for criminalization and the guarantee of pregnant women's autonomy exist. In the era of digital biopolitics, technologies such as electronic health records, fetal monitoring, and pregnancy apps provide benefits but also reinforce standardized medical decisions and compromise informed consent. Conversely, cyberactivism strengthens resistance and female empowerment through social networks, digital campaigns, and reporting platforms. Addressing obstetric violence requires specific legislation, childbirth humanization protocols, professional training, and ethical regulation of digital technologies to balance innovation with the dignity and autonomy of women.