Abstract
Problem: The high morbidity and mortality in the population of children and women can be caused by complications considered likely to be avoided by a perinatal care quality. Perinatal assistance consists of perinatal care of mother and newborn with rational and humanized application of technology, as well as follow-up their health conditions. Objective: To understand women's perception concerning the assistance during their kids’ birth process. Method: This is a qualitative research carried out at a reference hospital in mother-child assistance in Fortaleza-Ce-Brazil in october and november 2008. The subjects were mothers admitted in the rooming-in of the hospital and the ones that visited their children in neonatal ICU. Focal group was the methodological strategy orientated by the themes: women's perception on the reception in obstetric emergency; perception on the assistance in delivery room and in rooming-in; companion’s presence during childbirth. The information was submitted to the thematic categorical content analysis technique. All participants were informed about the objectives of the study, the form of participation and contribution to this reality in which they belong. Results: The women emphasized a good assistance and that received professionals' care and dedication. They showed the importance of correct and detailed information, but noticed the lack of bonds, because there are many professionals that assist the patients; they considered significant the companion’s presence. Conclusion: These results make possible for the professionals and managers to rethink the assistance offered looking for alternatives to supply these women's needs. The study contributes to the actions provided assistance to these women as well as highlights of the reception devices, listening, and involvement of the companion in this process. The study is relevant because it will bring in their discussions the path and strategies for improving care in health services. And in this sense, the nurse plays a relevant role in the team and its performance is mainly in the assistance to women in terms of birth.