PURPOSE: The aim of this study was to understand what it means to be a companion of women during the labor and delivery processes. METHODS: The sample consisted of 12 companions of women giving birth in a Brazilian maternity. A qualitative design was used to conduct the study. Data from interviews were examined with content analysis. RESULTS: The findings suggest that being a companion means, "to give support," "to be together/at the side" and "to observe everything." In the domain, observing medical care in a hospital setting, companions stated, "the physician does all the work"; and sometimes companions regarded themselves "without courage" and "without attitude." CONCLUSION: It is necessary to give a voice to companions during the labor and delivery processes. Companions very often feel intimidated by health professionals, discouraged, or just assuming an observer role when attempting to support women giving birth.
Patient Escort Service; Labor; Obstetric; Parturition; Women's health