Group Body Mapping: Exploring Intersectional Aspects of Obstetric Violence Through Embodiment-Experiences of Migrant Women in Situations of Vulnerability.

Abstract

This study investigated the use of group body mapping as a methodological tool to explore experiences of obstetric violence among migrant women from Senegal, Morocco, and Pakistan in Catalonia. The research aimed to assess the effectiveness of group body mapping in identifying the barriers these women faced during pregnancy, childbirth, and the postpartum period, while also highlighting the intersectional dimensions of obstetric violence. The study identified seven key codes-Issues/Barriers, Trust, Gender, Body/Embodiment, Significant Relationships, Employment, and Gender-Based Violence-which were analyzed from an intersectional perspective. Group body mapping was presented as an effective strategy to visualize structural and invisible barriers, offering a deeper understanding of the sociocultural dynamics that affected migrant women's access to and experience of sexual and reproductive health services. This technique complemented traditional research methods by capturing complex narratives and revealing systemic structures tied to social status, gender, religion, language, and age. It empowered women to reclaim agency over their experiences within historically medicalized and colonized healthcare systems. Ultimately, the research highlighted the transformative potential of group body mapping in advancing healthcare equity and promoting culturally and gender-sensitive sexual and reproductive health services for marginalized populations.