France is not the only country where women suffer gynecological and obstetric violence, even the United States is concerned. And this violence would crystallize especially at the time of pregnancy and childbirth.
This is highlighted by a new study conducted by the Center for Disease Control (CDC), the main federal health agency in the United States, and released by AFP.
The CDC report is based on the testimonies of 2,400 women ages 18 and older who have had their first child. They are overwhelming. Gynecological rape, refusal of treatment, failure to respect consent or privacy, verbal abuse, minimized or ignored suffering… In total, one in five women in labor (who are giving birth) has experienced obstetric abuse during childbirth.
Racialized women are overrepresented among victims of abuse
The report also shows that, among the victims of gynecological and obstetric violence, racialized women are particularly represented. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 30% of black women say they have been abused upon their delivery, followed by the Hispanic women (29%). To confront, ” Alone 18% of white women say they are concerned.
This sexist and racist discrimination in care is not without dangers for racialized women and their unborn children. Less cared for and cared for (we think especially to the alleged” mediterranean syndrome », leading some caregivers to believe that people perceived as North African and Black exaggerate their symptoms and pain), Black women are particularly exposed to it, which increases their stillbirth rate at childbirth. According to this same study, 40% of them said they were discriminated against during pregnancy or childbirth, especially due to skin colour.
For an intersectional approach to care
Other factors can also lead to lack of care or abuse. This is the case with age, weight or social class, especially for women who do not have health insurance.
Hence the need, according to CDC official Wanda Barfield, toan intersectional approach to carein particular gynecological and obstetric care. “As a doctor, mother and woman of color, it is disheartening to hear how common this abuse is. We know that racism and discrimination can lead to delays in treatment and sometimes tragic deaths that could have been avoided. »
Source: Madmoizelle
Mary Crossley is an author at “The Fashion Vibes”. She is a seasoned journalist who is dedicated to delivering the latest news to her readers. With a keen sense of what’s important, Mary covers a wide range of topics, from politics to lifestyle and everything in between.
