Obstetric-gynecological reasons for visits by female inmates to the midwife's clinic.

Abstract

Objectives: Female inmates have the right to reproductive and sexual health care. In addition, this population presents risk factors that make them especially vulnerable to obstetric-gynaecological pathologies. For this reason, they should be guaranteed the necessary care. The aim of this study is to determine the main obstetric and gynaecological reasons for female inmates to visit the midwife's clinic.

Material and method: Descriptive observational study carried out between 18/04/23 and 01/06/23. The target population were the female inmates at the Madrid VII Prison-Estremera.

Results: 77.5% of the women were of childbearing age. The sample showed 3.8% human immuno-deficiency virus, 8.7% hepatitis B virus and hepatitis C virus, 13% human papillomavirus, 5.8% syphilis. 40% were smokers and 37.6% users of illegal substances. There were 75.6% scheduled consultations, mainly for cervical cancer prevention and contraceptive advice. Consultations on demand accounted for 23.2%, mainly for concerns relating to contraception or vaginal issues.

Discussion: Since female inmates have multiple risk factors for the development of obstetric and gynaecological pathologies, prevention by the midwife cannot be ignored in prisons, with activities such as vaccination, health education, early detection tests, etc. In addition, the degree of participation has been high, so it is understood that female inmates demand this type of health care.