Perinatal death, collective action and legislation against obstetric violence in Argentina

Abstract

This article explores the interconnections between perinatal death, collective action, and legislation against obstetric violence in Argentina. It employs a comprehensive methodological approach, including in-depth interviews, document reviews, a survey, and intensive ethnographic fieldwork to provide a multidimensional understanding of how collective actions influence legislative outcomes. Johanna Piferrer’s case, a poignant example detailed in this study, illustrates how personal tragedy catalyzed public and legislative acknowledgement of obstetric violence. This article argues that her advocacy, coupled with the broader feminist movement’s support, was crucial in transforming personal grief into a public issue that led to significant legislative changes. These changes include the creation of “Johanna’s Law,” which mandates improved hospital protocols and health professional training to handle perinatal deaths more sensitively and effectively. The study concludes that collective action is a powerful catalyst for creating transformative legislation that addresses the systemic issues of obstetric violence in Argentina.