The care of women in the context of maternity: challenges and ways to humanize

Abstract

Objective: To know the perception of mothers about the care received during hospitalization in a public hospital. Methods: Descriptive study, performed at a secondary public hospital in Fortaleza/Ceará. Data were collected through semi-structured interview with 20 mothers and analyzed using the technique of content analysis. Results: The most part of women realized the attention received as quality, accessible and humane, and emphasized the reception and good relationship with the health care team. However, difficulties were also observed, as the lack of monitoring of the health team during labor, lack of information and insensitive and rude behavior of some professionals. Conclusion: The study encourages reflection and debate among professionals and managers, points out weaknesses and potentialities and indicates paths to follow in order to improve health care for women in maternity wards.