Work

Strategies for preventing gender‐based violence in healthcare services: Evidence synthesis for health policy

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Violence against women remains a serious public health problem and a violation of human rights that affects women's health. Healthcare providers play a fundamental role in preventing and responding to violence against women and girls. OBJECTIVES: This study analyzes strategies for preventing gender-based violence in healthcare services, focusing on identifying best practices for implementing evidence-based interventions in these settings. SEARCH STRATEGY: The review was conducted following the Joanna Briggs Institute's method for umbrella reviews and the Evidence Synthesis for Health Policy. A comprehensive search strategy was applied across eight databases. SELECTION CRITERIA: Secondary studies of interventions that address gender-based violence in healthcare settings for women and adolescents of reproductive age were included in this review. Two reviewers independently screened the studies and assessed their quality. DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS: Narrative synthesis was performed to summarize the evidence. MAIN RESULTS: A total of 24 systematic reviews conducted in healthcare settings were analyzed, most of them from high-income countries with diverse tools and methods. Screening strategies are implemented, particularly among at-risk populations in healthcare settings most frequented by women, such as sexual and reproductive services. Initiatives that include educational elements, counseling, and advocacy interventions show promising results. CONCLUSION: Collaborative strategies in healthcare settings that guarantee the follow-up of the survivors, the mitigation of gender-based violence consequences, and its intergenerational transmission are necessary. Culturally sensitive strategies based on women-centered, diversity, and equity approaches must guide the implementation of the interventions.

Source: International Journal of Gynecology & Obstetrics

DOI: 10.1002/ijgo.70934

Authors: Odette del Risco Sánchez, Erika Zambrano, Larissa Rodrigues, Nathália Quitério Daluia, Fernanda Garanhani Surita

Institution: Universidade Estadual de Campinas (UNICAMP)

Language: English

Topic: Intimate Partner and Family Violence

Subfield: Health

Field: Social Sciences

Domain: Social Sciences

SDGs: Good health and well-being, Gender equality, Peace, justice, and strong institutions, Reduced inequalities

Open Access status: hybrid

Estimated APC paid: $4,480