Mulheres privadas de liberdade : necessidades em saúde, determinantes sociais e repercussões em uma penitenciária da Paraíba

Abstract

Introduction: Female incarceration in Brazil has been increasing alarmingly, reflecting the intersection of social, economic, and gender inequalities. Incarcerated women, often marked by histories of violence, poverty, and low education levels, find themselves in a prison system that exacerbates their vulnerability. In addition to overcrowding and inadequate conditions, they face neglect regarding their basic needs, especially access to physical and mental health care. These circumstances not only compromise their quality of life but also reinforce cycles of social exclusion. In this context, understanding the reasons behind female incarceration and the health needs of these women becomes essential to support more inclusive and humanized public policies. Thus, this study seeks to answer the following question: What are the reasons for incarceration and the health needs of women deprived of liberty in a penitentiary in Paraíba? Objective: The main objective was to understand the reasons behind the incarceration and the health needs of women deprived of liberty in a penitentiary in Paraíba. Specific objectives included characterizing the sociodemographic profile of the participants, identifying their health needs, and exploring the social determinants that influenced their incarceration. Methodology: The research, with a qualitative, descriptive, and exploratory approach, was conducted with 23 women in closed regimes for at least six months. Data collection occurred between September 2023 and March 2024, using focus groups, participant observation, semi-structured interviews, and documentary research. The information was transcribed, organized into thematic categories, and analyzed according to Bardin's Content Analysis method and the framework of Basic Human Needs. Results and Discussion: The data revealed a predominantly young profile (30-35 years old), with incomplete primary education and a predominance of informal work before incarceration. Most participants reported a history of family violence, neglect, and emotional ruptures, often associated with involvement in drug trafficking for emotional or economic reasons. The physical and mental health of the participants was strongly affected by prison conditions, including insomnia, muscle pain, anxiety, and depression. Inadequate nutrition, precarious healthcare services, and limited psychological support exacerbated their suffering. Religiosity emerged as a coping strategy, while the lack of family support perpetuated feelings of abandonment. Final Considerations: The study concludes that the health and living conditions of women deprived of liberty reflect the structural inequalities of the Brazilian prison system. The urgent need for public policy reform is highlighted to ensure comprehensive care, reduce the harm caused by incarceration, and promote the humanization of care. The research contributes to broadening the understanding of these women's trajectories and supports the development of more inclusive and equitable strategies for prison health care.