THE HUMANIZATION OF HOSPITAL PROCESSES AND CHILDBIRTH HEALTHCARE

Abstract

If we consider the diversity of criteria used in scientific works, we will observe that there is no agreement as to what it means to “humanize” childbirth in a hospital environment. However, one of the most salient proposals suggests that the pregnant woman’s perspective must have, always within the available options, an important role in the decision-making process. Undoubtedly, this is a desirable and commendable declaration of intent that might get blurred in the daily practice due to the necessary interdependence of the possible options, especially when the alleged options must abide by criteria of scientific evidence and be part of the established protocols of the institution, as well as of the ethics of those professionals that assist the process of childbirth. There is a myriad of available options that advocate for a change of paradigm, a true challenge to get away from the predominance of the biomedical or positivist model, in which the role of the professionals has been centered upon the biometrical control of biological parameters —thus undermining women’s importance—, and to enter scenarios more consistent with the philosophies of healthcare.