REPRODUCTIVE JUSTICE AS A STRATEGY TO REDUCE MATERNAL MORTALITY OF BLACK WOMEN

Abstract

Introduction: This study highlights maternal mortality as an expression of social injustices in a capitalist society, emphasizing reproductive justice as a response to maternal mortality among Black women. Objective: The aim is to reflect on maternal mortality among Black women within the context of social injustices and disparities, and to explore reproductive justice as a strategy to mitigate these deaths. Method: We employed both qualitative and quantitative approaches, combining a literature review with the analysis of secondary data. First, we conducted a comprehensive literature review of concepts related to maternal mortality and reproductive justice. Then, we analyzed and identified secondary data from reliable sources, including the National Household Sample Survey (PNAD), the Brazilian Institute of Geography and Statistics (IBGE), the Ministry of Health (MS), and DATASUS. These data highlight the high rates of maternal mortality among Black women. The combination of these approaches provides a more comprehensive understanding of the social and racial disparities associated with maternal mortality in Brazil. Results: Reproductive justice, although new to Brazilian sciences, is a concept already recognized by Black feminism in Brazil. Maternal mortality among Black women is a central issue in the country's public health. We argue that reproductive justice serves as a denunciation of racial injustices, including maternal mortality. This study aims to introduce the concept of reproductive justice and develop strategies to promote justice in the reproductive health of Black Brazilian women.