Feelings about birth by a group of high-risk pregnant women

OBJECTIVE: to understand feelings about birth among a group of high-risk pregnant women. METHOD: a descriptive and qualitative study, using Alfred Schütz’s social phenomenology as a philosophical theoretical framework. The study included 25 pregnant women undergoing high-risk prenatal care. The interview had the following guiding questions: tell me about your feelings regarding the moment of birth/childbirth; How do you deal with the high-risk diagnosis? What are your expectations for birth/childbirth? RESULTS: five categories emerged: Fear of obstetric care; Fear of complications with the baby; Fear of cesarean section; Resilience in the face of high-risk pregnancy; and Expectations for birth. CONSIDERATIONS: high-risk pregnant women are afraid of the care they will receive, the risks and concern about the baby’s vitality at birth. The importance of care is emphasized, with a welcoming environment, bonding and communication between health team and pregnant woman.