Experiencias de mujeres en exploraciones e intervenciones ginecológicas y obstétricas

Abstract

The objective here was to analyze the experiences of 17 women during the gynecological or obstetric explorations and interventions they have experienced. Qualitative procedures were used: interviews, elaboration of personal testimonies and open questionnaires regarding these topics. These women have gone to the doctor because they find themselves at a reproductive age, sexually active, pregnant, or with alterations, irregularities, damage or pathologies related to sexuality or reproduction. The reasons for their visits were, among others: initial menstruation, irregular menstrual perlcds, vaginal infection, suspected pregnancy, prenatal carel birth control, and tumors. The doctors obtained symptoms and applied procedures of exploration and treatment in order to restore, maintain or ensure an adequate status and functioning of the female body, The women considered themselves to be patients favored by these medical practices, but also as objects or victims during gynecological and obstetric explorations and interventions, mainly when these were carried out by professionals of the male sexoTheir negative experiences and feelings notably included: shame, fear, distrust, indignation, confusion, perplexity, annoyance, pain, discomfort, impotence and exasperation; characteristics of people with little control over their social relations, as is the case of women in our culture with regards to their sexuality and reproduction. Likewise, testimonies suggest that within the field of gynecology and obstetrics, misogynist practices and representations of the culture of male supremacy and female subordination are both present and persistent.