Gynecological violence and its resonance in female gynaecologist–client interactions

Women must seek regular gynecological care for their checkups, childbirth, or gynecological diseases. Given the critical responsibility of obstetricians and gynecologists in safeguarding the health and lives of both mother and baby, this profession is highly sensitive and stressful. Structural factors may complicate the relationship between the doctor and client and lead to gynecological violenceA study in Iran sheds light on the violence between female gynecologists and their clients.

The research is done through semi-structured interviews with clients, residents, and female gynecologists in Iran to examine the lived experiences of both.

Based on the WHO’s definition of gynecological violence and its categories, verbal, physical, and psychological violence, social discrimination, neglect of care, and failure to maintain client confidentiality were the main themes found in gynecological violence in Iran.

The relationship between the gynecologist and the client suffers due to differences in religious and cultural beliefs, as well as the stressful nature of the job. Female gynecologists go through a challenging training course at university and also medical practice, and the significance of maternal mortality contributes to the stressfulness of their job. Working in public hospitals with a high workload and facing conflicts of interest between financial benefits and patient health complicates the relationship between the gynecologist and the client, creating the conditions for violence between them.