VIDM 2024 Programme

Speaker: Romina Gallardo Duarte

Facilitator: Susana Ku

Abstract:

What do Uruguayan women perceive as Obstetric Violence? Do they question the role of informed consent, agency or autonomy? Is legislation enough to protect women at the time of childbirth? What answers do women who initiate a complaint seek? What can midwifery improve or contribute to prevent these experiences? Why is a feminist and reproductive justice vision necessary in the monitoring of these cases? These are some of the questions that I raise and whose answers I will try to give, based on the analysis of 35 cases of women at the stage of reporting obstetric violence in Uruguay. It is a view that starts from legal practice, as a lawyer who accompanies and advises these complaint processes.

Check the time in your location: https://bit.ly/VIDM24-session-18

Access: https://mcmaster.zoom.us/j/94212646005

Recording: TBA

Speaker: Laura Quevedo

Facilitator: Susana Ku

Abstract: 

Childbirth and midwifery have consistently belonged to and been carried out by women, for women, among women. Anthropological studies posit midwifery as the world’s oldest profession, with midwives, nurses, and healers often facing persecution together. The lack of coincidence in these events lies in the fact that women’s autonomy, freedom, and sexuality have perpetually been perceived as threats by those seeking control. Human childbirth behavior stands in contrast to other primates, as human mothers actively seek assistance during childbirth, primarily from another woman who can provide support and share experiences acquired from predecessors or previous births. Despite centuries of evolution, midwives continue to play a crucial role in human survival and women’s health. The World Health Organization (WHO) includes the care of girls, adolescents, and adult women throughout the pregnancy continuum in its responsibilities. The presence of midwives in perinatal care has proven to significantly reduce rates of cesarean sections and maternal and neonatal morbidity and mortality. The professionalization and adaptation of midwives to the changing needs of diverse populations have occurred over history. Despite being historically expelled, prohibited, belittled, insulted, devalued, and even persecuted to the point of extermination during the inquisition, midwives currently advocate both nationally and internationally for the recognition of their profession and autonomy. Organizations like the WHO, ICM, and RELACAHUPAN have underscored the importance of midwives’ autonomy. Updating knowledge about the historical struggle for midwives’ autonomy is crucial to grasp the significance of protecting the profession, benefiting both midwives and the women’s sexual health.

Check the time in your location: https://bit.ly/VIDM24-session-21

Access zoom link here: https://frontier.zoom.us/j/86147013350?pwd=aIlisqZYGC9sLO1cIKfa1VyM7AFHnM.1

Recording: TBA

Speaker: Yennifer Márquez-Mosquera  & Pia Rodriguez Garrido

Facilitator: Susana Ku

Abstract:

Background: Counter-hegemonic practices among midwives as a way to carry out their work from a situated position concerned about socio-cultural changes carries a strong social and political commitment. Reaching this point is not an easy road, hence the importance of knowing and analyzing the counter-hegemonic processes of midwifery and its impact on the profession in Chile. Method: Qualitative design within the paradigm of descolonial feminist epistemologies; theoretical/practical/methodological proposal which works with the body, subjectivity, and the territory. Three body maps were developed by the midwives who also acted as authors of this study, and were analyzed via image analysis. Results: The body maps and their narratives indicate processes, stages, people, and key scenarios which let the midwives learn various counter-hegemonic ways to exercise their profession. These processes were not always linear, and we can also observe a continual questioning of traditional, sometimes violent forms, of carrying out midwifery. Discussion: The emergence of critical reflections around the exercise and tasks of midwifery is a phenomenon which has drawn increasing attention. In this sense, the counter-hegemonic practices of Chilean midwives and the critical reflections from midwives in Europe and the Anglo-Saxion nations have important and necessary encounter points, key elements to move towards a midwifery which is concerned with people and their experiences, with greater meaning and socio-political commitment.

Check your time here https://bit.ly/VIDM24-session-23

Access zoom link here: https://frontier.zoom.us/j/88545042861?pwd=VZSUaEifMWMOoaYahV3CMi9sBcrww3.1

Enhancing Obstetric Prehospital Care: Insights from Midwives in Lima, Peru

Speaker: Ginger Garcia

Facilitator(s): Susana Ku

Abstract:

This presentation delves into the experiences of a dedicated group of midwives in Lima, Peru, who possess specialized training to provide prehospital care during natural disasters. Peru’s diverse climate often leads to natural disasters that directly impact communities, underscoring the critical need for immediate attention in such situations. While the overarching approach is holistic, special emphasis is placed on the most vulnerable populations, including women, children, and the elderly. The goal is to deliver swift and timely care, focusing on prevention and support for women amidst crises. Furthermore, sustainability is prioritized, with an emphasis on resource efficiency and waste reduction, promoting natural childbirth, exclusive breastfeeding, and optimal nutrition. Recognizing the adverse effects of climate change on maternal and fetal health, proactive measures are taken to address eventualities swiftly and effectively.

Check the time in your location: https://bit.ly/VIDM24-closing-session

Access zoom link here: https://frontier.zoom.us/j/86419170770?pwd=L24glyqkrbxIbH56WkSXFnaKOPiIyo.1 

Recording: TBA