Abortion and stigma: an analysis of the scientific literature on the theme

Abstract

This article analyzes the scientific output on abortion and social stigma and the potential of the stigma category for abortion care in Brazil. An integrative review of publications on scientific databases without a time limit was conducted. Sixty-five publications with the social representations of women who had an abortion and the professionals who attended them were analyzed. The obstacles to the implementation of abortion laws and the protocols and norms that facilitate access to quality services care was explored. The conceptual relevance of Erving Goffman was a key element for the understanding of the gender transgression stereotypes, the imperative of motherhood, sexual purity, which tarnishes women who have abortions as inferior, damaged, promiscuous, sinful and murderous. Groups most affected by stigmatization were identified, namely women having an abortion and health professionals. Female conflicts due to the duality of concealing/revealing their abortions, the professional's conscientious objection and the obstacles facing the implementation of public policies emerged from the study. Reflecting on the role of stigma may interfere in the cycle of clandestine abortion and contribute to the (re)design of interventions that help to reduce damage to the sexual and reproductive health of women.

Key words
Abortion; Social Stigma; Health care