Gyneco-obstetric violence and its impact on the mental health of women with disabilities: a case study in Chile

Although gyneco-obstetric violence (GOV) addresses the violation of sexual and reproductive rights, it is crucial to problematize its subjective aspects and effects on the mental health of women with disabilities, especially in the Global South. Our objective was to analyze GOV experiences and their mental health impact in women with disabilities through a case study in Chile, using in-depth interviews and documentary analysis of social networks and shadow/alternative reports. In their interactions with the biomedical model, women with disabilities are exposed to violation of their sexual and reproductive rights, infantilization, and objectification of their bodies. This negates their subjectivity, directly impacting their self-perception, autonomy, and trust in healthcare institutions. One strategy through which to address GOV involves the collectivization of subjective disaffection in common spaces. It is crucial that healthcare institutions have teams trained to attend persons with disabilities as well as strategies for the prevention and reparation of acts of GOV. It is paramount to foster the social participation of women with disabilities in healthcare matters in order to make their experiences visible in spaces of collaboration with professionals, institutions, and policymakers.