Maternal mortality, intersectionality and the Alyne Pimentel case: a reflection

Abstract

The subject of this study is the maternal mortality of black women in Brazil, with a focus on the impacts of institutional and structural racism on reproductive health care. The aim was to reflect on maternal mortality among black women in Brazil in the light of the emblematic case of Alyne Pimentel, based on the contributions of Critical Race Theory and intersectionality. This is a documentary study, analyzing scientific literature, public policies and official documents, using the Alyne case as the central analytical axis. The theoretical approach is based on intersectionality, as proposed by Kimberlé Crenshaw, and on Critical Race Theory, highlighting how racism operates in the structure and practices of the health system. The results indicate that, despite legal advances, racial inequalities persist, with black women having much higher maternal mortality rates than white women. In conclusion, the realization of reproductive justice requires intersectional public policies, with constant monitoring, confronting institutional racism and strengthening maternal health care strategies with racial and gender equity.