The Perceptions of Healthcare Professionals Regarding Violence Against Women in Ecuador: A Qualitative Study

Objective: The aim of this study was to explore how healthcare professionals in the Republic of Ecuador perceive violence against women, its underlying social determinants, and their role in prevention and response within the healthcare setting. Methodology: A qualitative descriptive study was conducted using purposive sampling. Ten healthcare professionals with experience in managing cases of violence against women participated. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews and analysed using Braun and Clarke's reflective thematic analysis. The ATLAS.ti software was used throughout the analysis process. Results: The participants emphasised the normalisation of microaggressions, institutional shortcomings in prevention systems, and the need for gender-sensitive professional training. Three main themes emerged from the data analysis: (1) the characteristics and identification of violence against women, (2) the social dimensions of violence against women, and (3) combating violence against women in clinical and educational settings. Conclusions: The healthcare professionals highlighted the need to recognise normalised and less visible forms of violence reflected in everyday attitudes and behaviours. They emphasised the importance of early identification, multidisciplinary care and sex education as preventive strategies. The social context and deep-rooted power dynamics favour the perpetuation of violence against women. Healthcare professionals can play an important role in the prevention of violence against women by improving care for survivors, identifying areas for improvement within existing prevention systems, and promoting sex education.