Profile of high-risk pregnant women and co-management of the decision on the routh of birth delivery between doctor and pregnant woman

ABSTRACT

Cross-sectional study carried out with survey data in four large Brazilian cities. This research analyzes data from Campinas (SP), aiming at characterizing the profile of high-risk pregnant women followed-up at specialized public outpatient clinics, as well as to verify and discuss aspects related to collaborative care in the decision on the route of birth delivery during the specialized prenatal care. The sample was calculated considering the prevalence of the high-risk pregnancy, morbidity profile and coverage of specialized services. Questionnaires were applied to 405 pregnant women of these services, and a descriptive analysis was performed based on the frequency distribution of the questions. The profile of pregnant women is mainly composed of young, black women, who have completed high school and without health insurance. There was a statistical association between variables: when women choose their own route of birth individually, the majority opts for normal birth; when only the doctor decides, the majority indicates cesarean section; and, when a joint decision is made the cesarean section prevails, but, in a lower percentage than when the doctor decides alone. It is necessary to discuss the power asymmetry between doctors and users in the care management as a fundamental component to qualify health work.

KEYWORDS
Prenatal care; Pregnancy high-risk; Comprehensive health care; Decision making; Personal autonomy