Experiences of severe pregnancy complications can reveal issues that have been neglected or overlooked during care. The aim of this study was to understand these issues from the memories of women living in the northeast of Brazil who have been through this experience. We conducted a qualitative study using semi-structured interviews and content analysis anchored in symbolic interactionism theory. The findings show that the women had a negative perception of the care received during pregnancy. The women carry painful scars and remain torn apart by the psychological, physical, and emotional consequences of their experiences. It is hoped that the findings of this study prompt urgent critical reflection by the different actors and institutions involved in this process in order help prevent women from being subjected to iniquitous and avoidable suffering, vulnerability and violation.
Keywords
Maternal health; Pregnancy complications; Family Health Strategy; Health inequity