INEQUITY AND VIOLENCE AGAINST BLACK WOMEN IN THE HEALTHCARE SYSTEM: a narrative review

Abstract

Feminist and gender studies, from a decolonial and intersectional perspective, have grown in recent years in different countries. These studies admit that the intersection of vulnerable identities by gender, race, among others, enhances the conditions of physical and mental illness of people. Considering that Brazil is a country structurally marked by racism and sexism, the importance of discussions on how gender and race prejudices and stereotypes compromise the health of black women is evident. The objective was to carry out a narrative review of the literature about the health of black women. Data was collected from the main national and international research bases, such as: Scielo, PubMed and PePSIC, with the descriptors in Portuguese (saúde, mulheres negras, racismo) and in English (health, black women, racism). For an interpretation of the data, a qualitative content analysis was performed. Theoretically, support was sought especially from black feminist authors, such as Lélia González and Sueli Carneiro. Based upon the analysis, the scientific literature highlights the high rate of violence against women, especially obstetric violence in the health area. In this way, the research confirms that stigmatization, discrimination and racism are combined with gender and class prejudice. Consequently, there are adverse effects on the health of these women, including increasing difficulties in seeking care.