ASSESSMENT OF WOMEN'S PERCEPTION REGARDING METHODS OF PARTURITION

Abstract

This article sought to investigate women's perspectives on birth methods and their experiences. It aimed to understand the causes of the increase in cesarean sections in Brazil, their implications, and consequences for mothers and their babies. Fieldwork was conducted in São José do Rio Pardo, São Paulo, exclusively with women, spanning a range of ages, socioeconomic statuses, and ethnicities, both with and without children. During data collection, information was obtained about these women's lives, including experiences of pregnancy, childbirth, health, and experiences with each type of birth. The results indicate that, among the 101 participants, the majority were between 18 and 27 years old, and more than half had already had children. There was a prevalence of births in private institutions. A large proportion underwent cesarean sections, and most expressed a predisposition to choose this method again. Most did not experience complications during pregnancy, childbirth, or postpartum. The majority did not experience complications that required a particular type of birth. Most said they knew the benefits and risks of each type of birth, but many expressed uncertainty when answering these specific questions. The choice of birth mode is influenced by several factors, especially socioeconomic factors.