Salud y derechos humanos: la experiencia de médicos y médicas de conciencia en Uruguay

Abstract

This study discusses the relationship between health and human rights, with particular reference to sexual and reproductive health and especially with regard to voluntary termination of pregnancy. Here we will analyze this from a medical perspective, based on the understanding that the protection or violation of human rights in health is directly linked to the quality of care provided. When this is violated, all other rights are affected, resulting in various forms of violence, which worsens when gender, class, and racial inequalities intersect. Women and girls are the primary victims of sexual and reproductive rights violations. Based on this, it is important to engage with the Belém do Pará Convention, as it is a regional benchmark for protection against gender-based violence against women, which covers, among other areas, violence occurring in health services. On the other hand, a medical practice experience promoting human rights will be presented, using gynecology professionals in Uruguay who work within the voluntary abortion policy as a reference.