Reflexões bioéticas para uma assistência humanizada ao pré-natal: a autonomia da gestante na escolha da via de parto

Abstract

The choice of mode of delivery is an extremely important decision for the pregnant woman. Many times this decision is a reason for medical and clinical discussion, being the expectant mother not participating; besides that in several times she is misinformed about the risks, benefits and advantages of each of the different modes of delivery. In practice, the "freedom of choice" assured to the women is often ignored and hampered by poor information provided about the risks involved in procedures related to childbirth. Research show that the environment of each pregnancy is determinant to its own development as well as for the relation that the woman and the family will establish with the child since the first hours after birth. A favorable environment strengthens family ties, a basic condition for a healthy human development. This paper's research reveals a state of precariousness regarding the exercise of the autonomy of pregnant woman in the choice of mode of delivery. Even when she does the choice, her decision is based on precarious information received. Moreover, only a small share of pregnant women has access to reliable information from the professional teams, revealing a disturbing sense in relation to such an important decision for the pregnant woman and her family.