Ethical Issues in Women's Health - Essay Example

The problems are known to originate from societal influences associated with cultural beliefs and implications with regard to ethics (Smith, 2009). The greatest influence is the well-known traditional power imbalance in women. Women are expected to provide care, love and respect to the society without questioning the behavior and the decisions made by men. Gender imbalance is known to be the main cause of domestic violence, sexual assault women have also faced reproductive problem issues and women living in apt poverty giving birth to, many children and lack financial support from men (Smith, 2009).

Majority of women who are victims of gender imbalance in fear of reporting their problems to the right authority. Medical practitioners and nurses have had difficulties handling the problem of domestic violence (Grace, 2009). Another challenge experienced by women is the expectations women are required to deliver to the society. For instance, the society expects women to be mothers, caregivers, professionals, wives and friends all at once. As women strive to balance these roles, they experience health difficulties thus jeopardizing with ethical expectations of the society.

Sara’s case Sara is a 19-year-old pregnant girl who is in a dilemma about where to live to protect her fetus. Sara went to the healthcare for a checkup, and the nurse in charge noted some bruises. When Sara asked, confessed that her boyfriend who is responsible for the pregnancy abused her. Sara is currently living with her father and two siblings. Sara’s family suggested that she relocates to her mother’s place. In the past, Sara had a unhealthy relationship with her mother, and she is not comfortable living with her, in addition her boyfriend claimed that, if she relocates he will no longer be responsible for the her and the baby (Smith, 2009).

Sara does not want to lose her boyfriend and the father of her child therefore, she is afraid of making the decision of relocation. Sara’s case is similar to many other cases facing a number of women globally. Ethical and legal considerations have to be taken into account, to help people like Sara. Many are times, when abused, pregnant women are unable to decide appropriately. The nurse in charge of Sara’s situation has to help Sara make the decision with regard to her situation (Smith, 2009).

Sara can be practically considered to be a teenager and not capable of making a reasonable decision. Sara ought to be empowered first, because the abuse inflicted by her boyfriend are as a result of powerlessness, therefore; through empowerment she is going to be more informed and can make the decision that protects her and the fetus. The nurse in charge has to ensure the decision made must favor both Sara and the fetus. The decision to relocate may be suitable for the fetus but not for Sara emotionally (Smith, 2009).

Nonetheless, the decision to remain may put the fetus at risk due to constant abuse from Sara’s boyfriend. In addition, the boyfriend must also be involved in this case. He is responsible for putting Sara and the fetus at risk, talking to him and knowing what disturbs him will be crucial in taking care of the situation. If the boyfriend is reluctant change, his abusive ways the law can also be factored in the case (Grace, 2009). Even though, Sara may be reluctant about involving the law,