Labor support people from a postpartum woman’s perspective

Abstract

Aim: to understand how postpartum woman perceive the presence of labor support people. Methods: descriptive qualitative study using Bardin content analysis. Open interviews were conducted with women in a philanthropic maternity hospital. Results: two empirical categories emerged, and in each, two subcategories: The companion in labor - Company to alleviate loneliness and Source of support; Who follows the women at parturition - The family member and Professional accompanying health. Conclusion: the analysis points out that the care and attention dispensed by companions and health professionals reveal themselves indispensable to ensure comfort, well-being and security for women during the delivery process. Thus, it is possible to reflect on the challenge of ensuring the presence of a companion, a favorable ambience and respect for the rights of women and family in the institution