Significados atribuídos por pais a sua participação no trabalho de parto e parto da companheira

Abstract

In view of the benefits that the presence of the companion guarantees during labor and delivery is necessary for that is increasingly valued and entered in the birth process, especially when it comes to the father. The experience of paternity must have its beginning from the time a woman discovers she is pregnant, allowing the couple to live this experience together, sharing all the desires and wishes of pregnancy, as well as their difficulties, including active participation in the father delivery experience. Qualitative study of descriptive approach, which aims to know the meaning given by parents to their participation in the labor and birth companion. Participants were 15 men who accompanied their partners during labor and delivery and who were present in the Accommodation Facility set during the period of data collection. Individual interviews were conducted using a semi-structured script. The responses were organized and analyzed according to the theoretical framework of Laurence Bardin. The constructed empirical categories were: participation and emotional support; a new and different experience; preparation for escort; the support received from staff; emotions experienced in the process; importance for the couple and parental responsibility. The findings reveal that men are entering increasingly in supporting women during labor and delivery and public health workers and the services have been organizing to receive them, however, it is noticeable that still lack preparation and information so that people can experience more effectively this context. Respondents expressed their emotions without inhibition on the process, confirming the progressive incorporation of their responsibility to the process, which can generate benefits for women and help in strengthening the ties being the couple and this with their sons and daughters.