Introduction

This volume collects the proceedings of an interdisciplinary conference on obstetric and gynaecological violence held at the University of Turin in October 2024. Scholars from the fields of law, criminology, anthropology, sociology, medicine, and psychology examine a phenomenon that is widespread, multifaceted, and controversial. Obstetric and gynaecological violence lie at the intersection of gender-based and institutional violence. Understanding these phenomena requires attention to the underlying power dynamics embedded both in the patient-doctor relationship and in broader structures of gender discrimination. Obstetric violence was first identified and denounced in the context of childbirth and pregnancy. More recent analysis have highlighted specific forms of violence within gynaecological care, ranging from the gaslighting of contested illnesses to broader practises of disrespect and abuse, particularly affecting racialised, incarcerated, LGBTQIA+, and disabled patients.