THE ROLE OF THE OBSTETRIC NURSE IN HUMANIZED CHILDBIRTH

Abstract

Introduction: Humanized childbirth corresponds to a care model centered on the autonomy, safety, and respect of women during labor and delivery. In this context, the obstetric nurse plays an important role in promoting evidence-based practices and reducing unnecessary interventions. Objective: To analyze the obstetric nurse's care in humanized childbirth, considering their clinical, ethical, and educational practices. Methodology: This is an integrative literature review, conducted in the LILACS, MEDLINE, SciELO, and Google Scholar databases. Studies published between 2020 and 2026, in Portuguese, English, and Spanish, were included. The analysis was qualitative and interpretive, with the findings organized into thematic categories. Analysis and discussion of results: The results showed that the obstetric nurse contributes to the humanization of childbirth through welcoming, qualified listening, emotional support, use of non-pharmacological methods for pain relief, and encouragement of female autonomy. A significant contribution was also observed in reducing excessive medicalization and preventing obstetric violence. However, challenges related to the interventionist biomedical model, professional resistance, structural limitations, and insufficient continuing education persist. Conclusion: The assistance provided by obstetric nurses strengthens the quality of maternal and child care and promotes safer, more respectful, and woman-centered obstetric practices, although barriers to the full consolidation of humanized childbirth in health services still exist.