Aspects involved in the protagonism of women in labor and childbirth

Abstract

Objective: to understand the potentializing and limiting aspects of women's protagonism in labor and childbirth. Methods: qualitative research carried out in the maternal-infant unit of a Teaching Hospital. The study included 22 women admitted to the unit and 21 Nursing professionals. Data collection took place through semi-structured interviews. Data were subjected to thematic analysis. Results: aspects that enhance the protagonism of women were listed: attention, clarification of questions, respect for choices; and care based on scientific evidence. The aspects that limit the protagonism were lack of engagement of physicians in actions aimed at the humanization of childbirth; devaluation of women's speech; aggressive placements; and physical space constraints. Final Considerations: for women to be protagonists of childbirth and exercise their autonomy through conscious choices, prenatal health education is necessary. This education should include guidance on labor and the rights of pregnant women, conversations, and clarification of questions, in an empowerment process.