Toward an epidemiology of gynaecological violence

Introduction

GYNVEPI will lay the foundations of an epidemiology of gynaecological violence (GV). GV refers to sub-optimal experiences of care that can be perceived as abusive or dehumanising (e.g. non-consented medical acts, discrimination). Understood as a structural and gendered form of violence, it is a phenomenon that is yet to be fully defined and investigated: in contrast to the neighbouring field of obstetric violence, it has not been researched.

Objectives

Taking Germany as an exemplary setting, GYNVEPI aims at understanding the following aspects of women’s experiences of GV:

1. The who
2. The when
3. The how
4. The health consequences

Through an innovative, intersectional, gender-expansive, and gender-transformative approach to social epidemiology, it will provide a definition, a framework, and a quantitative, validated instrument for the study of GV. The mixed-methods approach (reviews, workshops, interviews, survey, digital platform) and interdisciplinary approach ensure the depth and strength of the findings.

Importance

GYNVEPI is important: gynaecological care constitutes, in many countries, the first point of contact for women’s health. Women are exposed throughout their life to the risk of GV, and its toll is assumed to be large, with consequences in the short- to long-term on mental, physical, social, and sexual health.

Timeliness

GYNVEPI is timely: the momentum of obstetric violence research provides a good starting point to reflect on GV. Testimonies of GV outside the scientific arena urge researchers to grasp the topic. Additionally, digital tools and participation enable the effective and quick collection of experiences from care users, including among marginalised groups.

Expected Outcomes

GYNVEPI will generate new knowledge on GV and its associations with health. Its gender-transformative component will initiate a transformation of harmful gender norms among the researchers and “researched” through reciprocal empowerment. Lastly, the methodological approach will be applicable in further studies, e.g., longitudinal studies and GV studies in Europe.