Applying best practices to pregnant women in the obstetric center.

OBJECTIVE: To identify the meaning attributed by nursing technicians to good care practices based on scientific evidence used with the pregnant women during the dilation stage of labor. METHOD: A qualitative study, based on Grounded Theory principles. Twelve interviews with nursing technicians attending labor in the obstetric center of two public hospitals, in Florianópolis/SC, were performed, from August of 2016 to March of 2017. Data were analyzed using open, axial coding. RESULTS: The implementation of good practices, for nursing technicians, means adequately performing their activities, providing humanized care to the pregnant woman, respecting her autonomy, promoting pain relief, and a peaceful labor. FINAL CONSIDERATIONS: An adequate number of technicians must be determined to maintain quality of care, and to complete nursing records in a more detailed and systematized manner.

Factors associated with low Apgar in newborns in birth center.

OBJECTIVE: to analyze factors associated with Apgar of 5 minutes less than 7 of newborns of women selected for care at the Center for Normal Birth (ANC). METHOD: a descriptive cross-sectional study with data from 9,135 newborns collected between July 2001 and December 2012. The analysis used absolute and relative frequency frequencies and bivariate analysis using Pearson's chi-square test or the exact Fisher. RESULTS: fifty-three newborns (0.6%) had Apgar less than 7 in the 5th minute. The multivariate analysis found a positive association between low Apgar and gestational age less than 37 weeks, gestational pathologies and intercurrences in labor. The presence of the companion was a protective factor. CONCLUSION: the Normal Birth Center is a viable option for newborns of low risk women as long as the protocol for screening low-risk women is followed.

Social Determinants of Health and their influence on the choice of birth control methods.

OBJECTIVE: To verify the association between Social Determinants of Health and birth control methods used by women of childbearing age. METHODS: Documentary and retrospective study, performed at a Brazilian Natural Birth Center with evaluation of the medical records of patients seen between 2003 and 2011 (n=2410). Data were collected on identification and general history, gynecological, sexual and obstetric. RESULTS: Hormone birth control methods were the most used among participants (25.0%); followed by barrier methods (21.5%) and surgical methods (19.3%). Statistical associations were observed regarding age, menarche, onset of sexual activity, pregnancy, miscarriage, smoking, hypertension, marital status, gynecological care and schooling with the choice of methods. CONCLUSION: The results confirm the importance of studies involving Social Determinants of Health, since they interfere in the way women choose birth control methods and the risks that this choice may pose to their health.

Social Determinants of Health and their influence on the choice of birth control methods / Determinantes Sociales de la Salud y su influencia en la elección del método anticonceptivo / Determinantes Sociais da Saúde e sua influência na escolha do método contraceptivo

ABSTRACT Objective: To verify the association between Social Determinants of Health and birth control methods used by women of childbearing age. Methods: Documentary and retrospective study, performed at a Brazilian Natural Birth Center with evaluation of the medical records of patients seen between 2003 and 2011 (n=2410). Data were collected on identification and general history, gynecological, sexual and obstetric. Results: Hormone birth control methods were the most used among participants (25.0%); followed by barrier methods (21.5%) and surgical methods (19.3%). Statistical associations were observed regarding age, menarche, onset of sexual activity, pregnancy, miscarriage, smoking, hypertension, marital status, gynecological care and schooling with the choice of methods. Conclusion: The results confirm the importance of studies involving Social Determinants of Health, since they interfere in the way women choose birth control methods and the risks that this choice may pose to their health.

RESUMEN Objetivo: Verificar la asociación entre los Determinantes Sociales de la Salud y el método anticonceptivo utilizado por mujeres en edad fértil. Métodos: Estudio documental y retrospectivo, realizado en un Centro de Parto Natural con evaluación de los prontuarios de pacientes atendidos entre 2003 y 2011 (n=2410). Se recogieron datos de identificación e histórico general, ginecológico, sexual y obstétrico. Resultados: Se destacaron los métodos hormonales como los más utilizados entre las participantes de la investigación (25,0%), seguido por los métodos de barrera (21,5%) y por los métodos quirúrgicos (19,3%). Se observaron asociaciones estadísticas sobre edad, menarquia, inicio de la vida sexual, embarazo, aborto, tabaquismo, hipertensión, estado civil, cuidado ginecológico y escolaridad con la elección de los métodos. Conclusión: Los resultados ratifican la importancia de estudios que involucran a los Determinantes Sociales de la Salud, Determinantes Sociales de la Salud que interfieren en la forma en que las mujeres escogen los métodos anticonceptivos y los riesgos que esa elección puede suponer para su salud.

RESUMO Objetivo: Verificar a associação entre os Determinantes Sociais da Saúde e o método contraceptivo utilizado por mulheres em idade fértil. Métodos: Estudo documental e retrospectivo, realizado em um Centro de Parto Natural com avaliação dos prontuários de pacientes atendidas entre 2003 e 2011 (n=2410). Foram coletados dados de identificação e histórico geral, ginecológico, sexual e obstétrico. Resultados: Destacaram-se os métodos hormonais como os mais utilizados entre as participantes da pesquisa (25,0%), seguido pelos métodos de barreira (21,5%) e pelos métodos cirúrgicos (19,3%). Foram observadas associações estatísticas acerca da idade, menarca, início da vida sexual, gravidez, aborto, tabagismo, hipertensão, estado civil, cuidado ginecológico e escolaridade com a escolha dos métodos. Conclusão: Os resultados ratificam a importância de estudos envolvendo os Determinantes Sociais da Saúde, visto que interferem na forma como as mulheres escolhem os métodos contraceptivos e os riscos que essa escolha pode representar para a sua saúde.

Applying best practices to pregnant women in the obstetric center / Buenas prácticas aplicadas a las parturientes en el centro obstétrico / Boas práticas aplicadas às parturientes no centro obstétrico

ABSTRACT Objective: To identify the meaning attributed by nursing technicians to good care practices based on scientific evidence used with the pregnant women during the dilation stage of labor. Method: A qualitative study, based on Grounded Theory principles. Twelve interviews with nursing technicians attending labor in the obstetric center of two public hospitals, in Florianópolis/SC, were performed, from August of 2016 to March of 2017. Data were analyzed using open, axial coding. Results: The implementation of good practices, for nursing technicians, means adequately performing their activities, providing humanized care to the pregnant woman, respecting her autonomy, promoting pain relief, and a peaceful labor. Final Considerations: An adequate number of technicians must be determined to maintain quality of care, and to complete nursing records in a more detailed and systematized manner.

RESUMEN Objetivo: Identificar el significado que los técnicos de enfermería atribuyen a las buenas prácticas de cuidado basadas en evidencias científicas aplicadas a las parturientas durante la fase de dilatación del trabajo de parto. Método: Estudio cualitativo, basado en los principios de Grounded Theory. Se realizaron 12 entrevistas con técnicas de enfermería que asistieron a parturientas en trabajo de parto en el centro obstétrico de dos hospitales públicos de Florianópolis/SC, de agosto de 2016 a marzo de 2017. Los datos se analizaron a través de la codificación abierta y axial. Resultados: Para las técnicas de enfermería, aplicar las buenas prácticas significa desempeñar su función de forma adecuada, proporcionar asistencia humanizada a la parturienta, respetando su autonomía, promover alivio del dolor y un trabajo de parto más tranquilo. Consideraciones finales: Se recomienda la identificación del número adecuado de técnicos para el mantenimiento de la calidad de la asistencia y la realización de registros de enfermería de forma más detallada y sistematizada

RESUMO Objetivo: Identificar o significado que técnicos de enfermagem atribuem às boas práticas de cuidado baseadas em evidências científicas aplicadas às parturientes durante a fase de dilatação do trabalho de parto. Método: Estudo qualitativo, fundamentado nos princípios da Grounded Theory. Realizou-se 12 entrevistas com técnicas de enfermagem que assistiam parturientes em trabalho de parto no centro obstétrico de dois hospitais públicos de Florianópolis/SC, de agosto 2016 à março 2017. Os dados foram analisados através da codificação aberta e axial. Resultados: Para as técnicas de enfermagem a realização das boas práticas significa desempenhar sua função de forma adequada, proporcionar assistência humanizada à parturiente, respeitando sua autonomia, promover alívio da dor e um trabalho de parto mais tranquilo. Considerações Finais: recomenda-se a identificação do número adequado de técnicos para a manutenção da qualidade da assistência e a realização de registros de enfermagem de forma mais detalhada e sistematizada.

Factors associated with low Apgar in newborns in birth center / Factores asociados al bajo Apgar en recién nacidos en centro de parto / Fatores associados ao baixo Apgar em recém-nascidos em centro de parto

ABSTRACT Objective: to analyze factors associated with Apgar of 5 minutes less than 7 of newborns of women selected for care at the Center for Normal Birth (ANC). Method: a descriptive cross-sectional study with data from 9,135 newborns collected between July 2001 and December 2012. The analysis used absolute and relative frequency frequencies and bivariate analysis using Pearson's chi-square test or the exact Fisher. Results: fifty-three newborns (0.6%) had Apgar less than 7 in the 5th minute. The multivariate analysis found a positive association between low Apgar and gestational age less than 37 weeks, gestational pathologies and intercurrences in labor. The presence of the companion was a protective factor. Conclusion: the Normal Birth Center is a viable option for newborns of low risk women as long as the protocol for screening low-risk women is followed.

RESUMEN Objetivo: analizar los factores asociados al Apgar de quinto minuto menor que siete de los recién nacidos de mujeres, seleccionadas para la asistencia en el Centro de Parto Normal (CPN). Método: estudio descriptivo transversal con datos de 9.135 recién nacidos, recogidos entre julio de 2001 y diciembre de 2012. En el análisis se utilizaron el escrutado de frecuencias absolutas y relativas de las variables y el análisis bivariado mediante el cálculo de la prueba de Chi-cuadrado de Pearson o prueba exacta de Pearson Fisher. Resultados: cincuenta y tres recién nacidos (0,6%) tuvieron Apgar menor que siete en el quinto minuto. El análisis multivariado encontró asociación positiva entre bajo Apgar y edad gestacional menor que 37 semanas, patologías en la gestación e interocurrencias en el trabajo de parto. La presencia del acompañante fue un factor protector. Conclusión: el CNP es una opción viable para los recién nacidos de mujeres de bajo riesgo desde que siga el protocolo de selección de las mujeres de bajo riesgo.

RESUMO Objetivo: analisar os fatores associados ao Apgar de quinto minuto menor do que sete de recém-nascidos de mulheres selecionadas para a assistência no Centro de Parto Normal (CPN). Método: estudo descritivo transversal com dados de 9.135 recém-nascidos, coletados entre julho de 2001 e dezembro de 2012. Na análise foi utilizada a apuração de frequências absolutas e relativas das variáveis e análise bivariada mediante o cálculo dos testes de qui-quadrado de Pearson ou exato de Fisher. Resultados: 53 recém-nascidos (0,6%) tiveram Apgar menor que sete no quinto minuto. A análise multivariada encontrou associação positiva entre baixo Apgar e idade gestacional menor que 37 semanas, patologias na gestação e intercorrências no trabalho de parto. A presença do acompanhante foi um fator protetor. Conclusão: o CPN é uma opção viável para recém-nascidos de mulheres de baixo risco desde que o protocolo de seleção das mulheres de baixo risco seja seguido.

[Factors associated with the involuntary pilgrimage for childbirth care in São Luís (Maranhão State) and Ribeirão Preto (São Paulo State), Brazil: a contribution from the BRISA cohort]. / Fatores associados à peregrinação para o parto em São Luís (Maranhão) e Ribeirão Preto (São Paulo), Brasil: uma contribuição da coorte BRISA.

The objectives of this study were to estimate the involuntary pilgrimage by women in labor in search of childbirth care and to identify factors associated with this endeavor in two Brazilian cities. This was a cross-sectional study nested in the BRISA birth cohort, whose sample consisted of 10,475 women admitted to the selected maternity hospitals for delivery in São Luís (Maranhão State) and Ribeirão Preto (São Paulo State). Interviews were held with questionnaires that contained sociodemographic and obstetric variables. Hierarchical modeling was used, and relative risk was calculated with Poisson regression. Involuntary pilgrimage during labor was more frequent in São Luís (35.8%) than in Ribeirão Preto (5.8%). In São Luís, factors associated with pilgrimage were: first pregnancy (RR = 1.19; 95%CI: 1.08-1.31) and schooling less than 12 complete years. However, age 35 years or older (RR = 0.65; 95%CI: 0.54-0.84) was associated with less pilgrimage. In Ribeirão Preto, such trekking for obstetric care was more frequent in women with high-risk pregnancies (RR = 2.45; 95%CI: 1.81-3.32) and those with gestational age less than 37 weeks (RR = 1.93; 95%CI: 1.50-2.50). Meanwhile, delivery with gestational age equal to or greater than 42 weeks was associated with less pilgrimage (RR = 0.57; 95%CI: 0.33-0.98). In both cities, poor women had to trek more in search of childbirth care and had no guarantee of care, even for those who had received prenatal care. The study revealed the lack of guarantee of universal and equitable access and highlighted the unequal access to childbirth care between Brazil's major geographic regions.

O objetivo deste trabalho foi estimar a peregrinação de gestantes no momento do parto e identificar os fatores associados a essa peregrinação em duas cidades brasileiras. Estudo seccional, aninhado à coorte de nascimento BRISA, cuja amostra foi composta por 10.475 gestantes admitidas nas maternidades selecionadas por ocasião do parto em São Luís (Maranhão) e Ribeirão Preto (São Paulo). Entrevistas foram realizadas utilizando-se questionários que continham variáveis sociodemográficas e relacionadas ao parto. Utilizou-se modelagem hierarquizada, e calculou-se o risco relativo utilizando regressão de Poisson. A peregrinação foi mais frequente em São Luís (35,8%) que em Ribeirão Preto (5,8%). Em São Luís, foram fatores associados à maior peregrinação: ser primípara (RR = 1,19; IC95%: 1,08-1,31) e ter escolaridade menor que 12 ou mais anos de estudo. Entretanto, ter 35 anos ou mais (RR = 0,65; IC95%: 0,54-0,84) foi fator associado à menor peregrinação. Em Ribeirão Preto, peregrinaram com maior frequência as gestantes cujos partos foram de alto risco (RR = 2,45; IC95%: 1,81-3,32) e com idade gestacional inferior a 37 semanas (RR = 1,93; IC95%: 1,50-2,50). No entanto, partos com idade gestacional igual ou acima de 42 semanas foi um fator associado à menor peregrinação (RR = 0,57; IC95%: 0,33-0,98). Nas duas cidades, gestantes pobres peregrinaram com maior frequência, e sem garantia de que seriam atendidas, mesmo dentre as que realizaram o pré-natal. O estudo evidenciou ausência da garantia de acesso universal e equânime e reafirmou a desigualdade de acesso à assistência ao parto entre as regiões brasileiras.

El objetivo de este trabajo fue estimar los desplazamientos largos de gestantes en el momento del parto e identificar los factores asociados a estos desplazamientos en dos ciudades brasileñas. Se trata de una investigación seccional, encajada en la cohorte de nacimiento BRISA, cuya muestra estuvo compuesta por 10.475 gestantes, admitidas en las maternidades seleccionadas para dar a luz en São Luís (Maranhão) y Ribeirão Preto (São Paulo). Las entrevistas se realizaron utilizando cuestionarios que contenían variables sociodemográficas y relacionadas con el parto. Se utilizó un modelado jerarquizado, y se calculó el riesgo relativo utilizando la regresión de Poisson. Los desplazamientos fueron más frecuentes en São Luís (35,8%) que en Ribeirão Preto (5,8%). En São Luís, los factores asociados a mayores desplazamientos fueron: ser primípara (RR = 1,19; IC95%: 1,08-1,31) y contar con una escolaridad menor a 12 o más años de estudio. Sin embargo, tener 35 años o más (RR = 0,65; IC95%: 0,54-0,84) fue un factor asociado a menores desplazamientos. En Ribeirão Preto, se desplazaron con mayor frecuencia las gestantes cuyos partos fueron de alto riesgo (RR = 2,45; IC95%: 1,81-3,32) y con una edad gestacional inferior a 37 semanas (RR = 1,93; IC95%: 1,50-2,50). Sin embargo, los partos con una edad gestacional igual o por encima de las 42 semanas fue un factor asociado a un menor desplazamiento (RR = 0,57; IC95%: 0,33-0,98). En las dos ciudades, las gestantes pobres se desplazaron con mayor frecuencia, y sin garantía de que serían atendidas, incluso entre quienes realizaron seguimiento prenatal. El estudio evidenció la inexistencia de garantías de acceso universal y ecuánime a la salud y reafirmó la desigualdad de acceso en la asistencia al parto entre regiones brasileñas.

Fatores associados à peregrinação para o parto em São Luís (Maranhão) e Ribeirão Preto (São Paulo), Brasil: uma contribuição da coorte BRISA / Factors associated with the involuntary pilgrimage for childbirth care in São Luís (Maranhão State) and Ribeirão Preto (São Paulo State), Brazil: a contribution from the BRISA cohort / Factores asociados a largos desplazamientos para el parto en São Luís (Maranhão) y Ribeirão Preto (São Paulo), Brasil: la contribución de la cohorte BRISA

Resumo: O objetivo deste trabalho foi estimar a peregrinação de gestantes no momento do parto e identificar os fatores associados a essa peregrinação em duas cidades brasileiras. Estudo seccional, aninhado à coorte de nascimento BRISA, cuja amostra foi composta por 10.475 gestantes admitidas nas maternidades selecionadas por ocasião do parto em São Luís (Maranhão) e Ribeirão Preto (São Paulo). Entrevistas foram realizadas utilizando-se questionários que continham variáveis sociodemográficas e relacionadas ao parto. Utilizou-se modelagem hierarquizada, e calculou-se o risco relativo utilizando regressão de Poisson. A peregrinação foi mais frequente em São Luís (35,8%) que em Ribeirão Preto (5,8%). Em São Luís, foram fatores associados à maior peregrinação: ser primípara (RR = 1,19; IC95%: 1,08-1,31) e ter escolaridade menor que 12 ou mais anos de estudo. Entretanto, ter 35 anos ou mais (RR = 0,65; IC95%: 0,54-0,84) foi fator associado à menor peregrinação. Em Ribeirão Preto, peregrinaram com maior frequência as gestantes cujos partos foram de alto risco (RR = 2,45; IC95%: 1,81-3,32) e com idade gestacional inferior a 37 semanas (RR = 1,93; IC95%: 1,50-2,50). No entanto, partos com idade gestacional igual ou acima de 42 semanas foi um fator associado à menor peregrinação (RR = 0,57; IC95%: 0,33-0,98). Nas duas cidades, gestantes pobres peregrinaram com maior frequência, e sem garantia de que seriam atendidas, mesmo dentre as que realizaram o pré-natal. O estudo evidenciou ausência da garantia de acesso universal e equânime e reafirmou a desigualdade de acesso à assistência ao parto entre as regiões brasileiras.

Abstract: The objectives of this study were to estimate the involuntary pilgrimage by women in labor in search of childbirth care and to identify factors associated with this endeavor in two Brazilian cities. This was a cross-sectional study nested in the BRISA birth cohort, whose sample consisted of 10,475 women admitted to the selected maternity hospitals for delivery in São Luís (Maranhão State) and Ribeirão Preto (São Paulo State). Interviews were held with questionnaires that contained sociodemographic and obstetric variables. Hierarchical modeling was used, and relative risk was calculated with Poisson regression. Involuntary pilgrimage during labor was more frequent in São Luís (35.8%) than in Ribeirão Preto (5.8%). In São Luís, factors associated with pilgrimage were: first pregnancy (RR = 1.19; 95%CI: 1.08-1.31) and schooling less than 12 complete years. However, age 35 years or older (RR = 0.65; 95%CI: 0.54-0.84) was associated with less pilgrimage. In Ribeirão Preto, such trekking for obstetric care was more frequent in women with high-risk pregnancies (RR = 2.45; 95%CI: 1.81-3.32) and those with gestational age less than 37 weeks (RR = 1.93; 95%CI: 1.50-2.50). Meanwhile, delivery with gestational age equal to or greater than 42 weeks was associated with less pilgrimage (RR = 0.57; 95%CI: 0.33-0.98). In both cities, poor women had to trek more in search of childbirth care and had no guarantee of care, even for those who had received prenatal care. The study revealed the lack of guarantee of universal and equitable access and highlighted the unequal access to childbirth care between Brazil's major geographic regions.

Resumen: El objetivo de este trabajo fue estimar los desplazamientos largos de gestantes en el momento del parto e identificar los factores asociados a estos desplazamientos en dos ciudades brasileñas. Se trata de una investigación seccional, encajada en la cohorte de nacimiento BRISA, cuya muestra estuvo compuesta por 10.475 gestantes, admitidas en las maternidades seleccionadas para dar a luz en São Luís (Maranhão) y Ribeirão Preto (São Paulo). Las entrevistas se realizaron utilizando cuestionarios que contenían variables sociodemográficas y relacionadas con el parto. Se utilizó un modelado jerarquizado, y se calculó el riesgo relativo utilizando la regresión de Poisson. Los desplazamientos fueron más frecuentes en São Luís (35,8%) que en Ribeirão Preto (5,8%). En São Luís, los factores asociados a mayores desplazamientos fueron: ser primípara (RR = 1,19; IC95%: 1,08-1,31) y contar con una escolaridad menor a 12 o más años de estudio. Sin embargo, tener 35 años o más (RR = 0,65; IC95%: 0,54-0,84) fue un factor asociado a menores desplazamientos. En Ribeirão Preto, se desplazaron con mayor frecuencia las gestantes cuyos partos fueron de alto riesgo (RR = 2,45; IC95%: 1,81-3,32) y con una edad gestacional inferior a 37 semanas (RR = 1,93; IC95%: 1,50-2,50). Sin embargo, los partos con una edad gestacional igual o por encima de las 42 semanas fue un factor asociado a un menor desplazamiento (RR = 0,57; IC95%: 0,33-0,98). En las dos ciudades, las gestantes pobres se desplazaron con mayor frecuencia, y sin garantía de que serían atendidas, incluso entre quienes realizaron seguimiento prenatal. El estudio evidenció la inexistencia de garantías de acceso universal y ecuánime a la salud y reafirmó la desigualdad de acceso en la asistencia al parto entre regiones brasileñas.

Casas Maternas in the Rural Highlands of Guatemala: A Mixed-Methods Case Study of the Introduction and Utilization of Birthing Facilities by an Indigenous Population.

BACKGROUND: An international NGO, with financial and managerial support from "partner" communities, established Casas Maternas (birthing facilities) in 3 municipalities in the isolated northwestern highlands of the department of Huehuetenango in Guatemala-an area with high maternal mortality ratio (338 maternal deaths per 100,000 live births). Traditional birth attendants are encouraged to bring patients for delivery at the Casas Maternas, where trained staff are present and access to referral care is facilitated. METHODS: We conducted a mixed-methods study in San Sebastian Coatán municipality to assess the contribution of 2 Casas Maternas to health facility deliveries among partner and non-partner communities, with particular emphasis on equity in access. We surveyed all women who delivered in the study area between April 2013 and March 2014, the first full year in which both Casas Maternas in the study area were operating. In addition, using purposive sampling, we conducted in-depth interviews with 22 women who delivered and 6 focus group discussions with 42 community leaders, traditional birth attendants, and Casas Maternas staff members. We analyzed the quantitative data using descriptive statstics and the qualitative data with descriptive content analysis. RESULTS: Of the 321 women eligible for inclusion in the study, we surveyed 275 women (14.3% could not be located or refused to participate). Between April 2013 and March 2014, 70% of women living in partner communities delivered in a health facility (54% in a Casa Materna) compared with 30% of women living in non-partner communities (17% in a Casa Materna). There was no statistically significant difference in uptake of the Casa Materna by maternal education and only a weak effect by household wealth. In contrast, distance from the Casa Materna had a pronounced effect. Traditional birth attendants were strong advocates for utilization of the Casa Materna and played an important role in the decision regarding where the birth would take place. In addition, the program's outreach component, in which peer volunteers visit homes to promote healthy behaviors and appropriate use of health facilities, was identified as a key factor in encouraging mothers to deliver in facilities. DISCUSSION: The Casa Materna approach to strengthening maternity care as developed by Curamericas has potential to increase health facility utilization in isolated mountainous areas inhabited by an indigenous population where access to government services is limited and where maternal mortality is high. The approach shows promise for broader application in Guatemala and beyond.

Labor and delivery service use: indigenous women's preference and the health sector response in the Chiapas Highlands of Mexico.

BACKGROUND: Mexico has undertaken important efforts to decrease maternal mortality. Health authorities have introduced intercultural innovations to address barriersfaced by indigenous women accessing professional maternal and delivery services. This study examines, from the perspective of indigenous women, the barriers andfacilitators of labor and delivery care services in a context of intercultural and allopathic innovations. METHODS: This is an exploratory study using a qualitative approach of discourse analysis with grounded theory techniques. Twenty-five semi-structured interviews were undertaken with users and non-users of the labor and delivery services, as well as with traditional birth attendants (TBAs) in San Andrés Larráinzar, Chiapas in 2012. RESULTS: The interviewees identified barriers in the availability of medical personnel and restrictive hours for health services. Additionally, they referred to barriers to access (economic, geographic, linguistic and cultural) to health services, as well as invasive and offensive hospital practices enacted by health system personnel, which limited the quality of care they can provide. Traditional birth attendants participating in intercultural settings expressed the lack of autonomy and exclusion they experience by hospital personnel, as a result of not being considered part of the care team. As facilitators, users point to the importance of having their traditional birth attendants and families present during childbirth, to allow them to use their clothing during the attention, that the staff of health care is of the female sex and speaking the language of the community. As limiting condition users referred the different medical maneuvers practiced in the attention of the delivery (vaginal examination, episiotomy, administration of oxytocin, etc.). CONCLUSIONS: Evidence from the study suggests the presence of important barriers to the utilization of institutional labor and delivery services in indigenous communities, in spite of the intercultural strategies implemented. It is important to consider strengthening intercultural models of care, to sensitize personnel towards cultural needs, beliefs, practices and preferences of indigenous women, with a focus on human rights, gender equity and quality of care.

The acceptability and feasibility of an intercultural birth center in the highlands of Chiapas, Mexico.

BACKGROUND: An intercultural birthing house was established in the Highlands of Chiapas, Mexico, as an intervention to reduce maternal mortality among indigenous women. This birth center, known locally as the Casa Materna, is a place where women can come to give birth with their traditional birth attendant. However, three months after opening, no woman had used the birthing house. METHODS: This study reports on the knowledge, attitudes and practices related to childbirth and use of the Casa Materna from the perspective of the health workers, traditional birth attendants and the program's target population. Structured interviews, in-depth interviews and focus group discussions were conducted with participants from each of these groups. Data was searched for emerging themes and coded. RESULTS AND CONCLUSIONS: Findings show that the potential success of this program is jeopardized by lack of transport and a strong cultural preference for home births. The paper highlights the importance of community participation in planning and implementing such an intervention and of establishing trust and mutual respect among key actors. Recommendations are provided for moving forward the maternal health agenda of indigenous women in Chiapas.

Resultados maternos e neonatais da assistência em casa de parto no município do Rio de Janeiro / Maternal and neonatal assistance results at Birthing Center in the municipality of Rio de Janeiro / Resultados maternos y neonatales de la asistencia en casa de nacimiento en el municipio de Rio de Janeiro

O objetivo deste estudo foi descrever os resultados maternos e neonatais da assistência na Casa de Parto David Capistrano Filho. Pesquisa exploratório-descritiva, com abordagem quantitativa, que analisou 458 prontuários dos partos normais e nascimentos no período de janeiro de 2008 a dezembro de 2009. As parturientes eram mulheres jovens, de 15 a 25 anos de idade (66,6%), e nulíparas (55%). Durante o trabalho de parto, elas permaneceram com o acompanhante (94,1%) e receberam cuidados para o relaxamento e o conforto. A taxa de episiotomia foi de 2,4%. Não houve óbitos maternos e neonatais. Os casos de asfixia neonatal representaram 0,2% dos nascidos vivos. As transferências para o hospital corresponderam a 2,8% das mulheres no pós-parto e 8,5% entre os neonatos. A maioria dos resultados encontrados foi semelhante aos descritos nas pesquisas brasileiras e internacionais acerca da assistência em centros de parto.

The purpose of this study was to describe the maternal and neonatal assistance results in the Casa de Parto David Capistrano Filho Birthing Center. An exploratory and descriptive research with a quantitative approach, which were analyzed 458 patients' files data of normal delivery and births in period from January 2008 to December 2009. The pregnants were young women, from 15 to 25 years old (66.6%), and nulliparous (55%). During labor, they remained with the companion (94.1%) and received care to relaxation and comfort. The episiotomy rate was 2.4%. There were no maternal and neonatal deaths. The cases of neonatal asphyxia accounted for 0.2% of live births. Transfers rate to hospital corresponded to 2.8% of women postpartum and 8.5% among newborns. Most results were similar to those described in Brazilian and internationals researches about birth centers assistance.

El objetivo de este estudio fue describir los resultados maternos y neonatales de la asistencia en la Casa de Parto David Capistrano Filho. Investigación exploratoria y descriptiva con enfoque cuantitativo, que analizó 458 registros clínicos de los partos normales y nacimientos en el período de Enero de 2008 a Diciembre de 2009. Las mujeres embarazadas eran mujeres jóvenes, entre 15 y 25 años de edad (66,6%), y nulíparas (55%). Durante el trabajo de parto, ellas recibieron dieta oral (100%), permanecieron con el acompañante (94,1%) y recibieron cuidados para la relajación y confort. La tasa de episiotomía fue del 2,4%. No hubo óbitos maternos y neonatales. Los casos de asfixia neonatal representaron 0,2% de los neonatos. Los traslados para el hospital correspondieron a 2,8% de las mujeres en el postparto y a 8,5% entre los recién nacidos. La mayoría de los resultados fueron similares a los descritos en las investigaciones brasileñas e internacionales a cerca de la asistencia en centros de nacimientos.

Resultados maternos e neonatais em centro de parto normal peri-hospitalar e hospital / Maternal and neonatal outcomes at an alongside birth center and at a hospital / Resultados maternos y neonatales en centro de parto normal peri hospitalario y hospital

OBJETIVO: Comparar os resultados maternos e neonatais em mulheres de baixo risco atendidas em centro de parto normal peri-hospitalar e hospital. MÉTODOS: Estudo transversal com amostra representativa de mulheres de baixo risco atendidas em São Paulo, SP, de 2003 a 2006. Foram incluídas 991 mulheres que tiveram o parto no centro de parto normal e 325 que deram à luz no hospital. Os dados foram obtidos dos prontuários. A análise comparativa foi realizada para o total de mulheres e estratificada segundo a paridade. Foram aplicados os testes qui-quadrado e exato de Fisher. RESULTADOS: Houve distribuição homogênea das mulheres segundo a paridade (45,4 por cento nulíparas e 54,6 por cento mulheres com um ou mais partos anteriores). Foram encontradas diferenças estatisticamente significantes em relação às seguintes intervenções: amniotomia (mais freqüente entre nulíparas do hospital); utilização de ocitocina no trabalho de parto e utilização de analgésico no pós-parto (mais freqüentes no hospital entre as mulheres de todas as paridades). A taxa de episiotomia foi maior entre as nulíparas, tanto no centro de parto como no hospital. Houve maior freqüência de intervenções com o neonato no hospital: aspiração das vias aéreas superiores, aspiração gástrica, lavagem gástrica, oxigênio por máscara aberta. Também ocorreram com mais freqüência no hospital bossa serossanguínea, desconforto respiratório e internação na unidade neonatal. Não houve diferença nos valores de Apgar no quinto minuto nem casos de morte materna ou perinatal. CONCLUSÕES: A assistência no centro de parto normal foi realizada com menos intervenções e com resultados maternos e neonatais semelhantes aos do hospital.

OBJECTIVE: To compare maternal and neonatal outcomes in low-risk women assisited in an alongside birth center and at a hospital. METHODS: A cross-sectional study was conducted with a representative sample of low-risk women in São Paulo (Southeastern Brazil), from 2003 to 2006. The study included 991 women who delivered a child at the alongside birth center and 325 who delivered a child at a hospital. Data were obtained from medical records. A comparative analysis was performed for all of the women, who were stratified according to parity. The chi-square test and Fisher's exact test were used to compare outcomes between women who delivered in alongside birth center and those who gave birth in the hospital. RESULTS: There was a homogeneous distribution of women according to parity (45.4 percent were nulliparous, and 54.6 percent had one or more previous deliveries). Statistically significant differences were found in the frequency of amniotomy (more frequent in nulliparous women treated at the hospital), the use of oxytocin during labor, and the use of postpartum analgesia (both more frequent among women of any parity treated at the hospital). The rate of episiotomy was higher in nulliparous women, both in the alongside birth center and at the hospital. Neonatal interventions were more frequent at the hospital and included aspiration of the upper airways, gastric aspiration, gastric lavage, and the use of an open oxygen mask. Other events that occurred with greater frequency at the hospital included caput succedaneum, respiratory discomfort, and admittance to the neonatal unit. There was no difference in Apgar scores at the fifth minute or cases of maternal or perinatal death. CONCLUSIONS: Care at the alongside birth center involved fewer interventions and had maternal and neonatal outcomes similar to those of the hospital setting.

OBJETIVO: Comparar los resultados maternos y neonatales en mujeres de bajo riesgo atendidas en centro de parto normal peri hospitalario y hospital. MÉTODOS: Estudio transversal con muestra representativa de mujeres de bajo riesgo atendidas en Sao Paulo, Sureste de Brasil, de 2003 a 2006. Se incluyeron 991 mujeres que realizaron el parto en el centro de parto normal y 325 que dieron a luz en el hospital. Los datos fueron obtenidos de los prontuarios. El análisis comparativo fue realizado para el total de mujeres y estratificado según la paridad. Se aplicaron las pruebas de chi-cuadrado y exacto de Fisher. RESULTADOS: Hubo distribución homogénea de las mujeres según la paridad (45,4 por ciento de nulíparas y 54,6 por ciento de mujeres con uno o más partos anteriores). Se encontraron diferencias estadísticamente significativas con relación a las siguientes intervenciones: amniotomía (más frecuente entre nulíparas del hospital), utilización de ocitocina en el trabajo de parto y utilización de analgésico en el postparto (más frecuentes en el hospital entre las mujeres de todas las paridades). La tasa de episiotomía fue mayor entre las nulíparas, tanto en el centro de parto como en el hospital. Hubo mayor frecuencia de intervenciones con el neonato en el hospital: aspiración de las vías aéreas superiores, aspiración gástrica, lavado gástrico, oxígeno por máscara abierta. También ocurrieron con más frecuencia en el hospital bolsa serosanguínea, dificultad respiratoria e internación en la unidad neonatal. No hubo diferencia en los valores de Apgar en el quinto minuto ni en casos de muerte materna o perinatal. CONCLUSIONES: La asistencia en el centro de parto normal fue realizada con menos intervenciones y con resultados maternos y neonatales semejantes a los del hospital.

Maternal and neonatal outcomes at an alongside birth center and at a hospital.

OBJECTIVE: To compare maternal and neonatal outcomes in low-risk women assisited in an alongside birth center and at a hospital. METHODS: A cross-sectional study was conducted with a representative sample of low-risk women in São Paulo (Southeastern Brazil), from 2003 to 2006. The study included 991 women who delivered a child at the alongside birth center and 325 who delivered a child at a hospital. Data were obtained from medical records. A comparative analysis was performed for all of the women, who were stratified according to parity. The chi-square test and Fisher's exact test were used to compare outcomes between women who delivered in alongside birth center and those who gave birth in the hospital. RESULTS: There was a homogeneous distribution of women according to parity (45.4% were nulliparous, and 54.6% had one or more previous deliveries). Statistically significant differences were found in the frequency of amniotomy (more frequent in nulliparous women treated at the hospital), the use of oxytocin during labor, and the use of postpartum analgesia (both more frequent among women of any parity treated at the hospital). The rate of episiotomy was higher in nulliparous women, both in the alongside birth center and at the hospital. Neonatal interventions were more frequent at the hospital and included aspiration of the upper airways, gastric aspiration, gastric lavage, and the use of an open oxygen mask. Other events that occurred with greater frequency at the hospital included caput succedaneum, respiratory discomfort, and admittance to the neonatal unit. There was no difference in Apgar scores at the fifth minute or cases of maternal or perinatal death. CONCLUSIONS: Care at the alongside birth center involved fewer interventions and had maternal and neonatal outcomes similar to those of the hospital setting.

Caracterização das cesarianas em centro de parto normal / Cesarean sections in a birth center / Caracterización de las cesáreas en centro de parto normal

OBJETIVO: Estimar a prevalência de cesarianas em um centro de parto normal intra-hospitalar e identificar fatores associados. MÉTODOS: Estudo transversal com análise de prontuários de 2.441 partos assistidos em março e abril de 2005 em um centro de parto normal intra-hospitalar de São Paulo, SP. A variável dependente (tipo de parto) foi classificada como parto normal e operação cesariana. As variáveis independentes foram categorizadas em quatro grupos: demográficas; história obstétrica pregressa e atual; assistência intraparto; e resultados perinatais. A razão de prevalência e o intervalo de 95 por cento de confiança (IC95 por cento) foram calculados para identificar associação entre tipo de parto e variáveis maternas e do recém-nascido. RESULTADOS: Do total de partos, 14,9 por cento foram operações cesarianas. Ter sido submetida a cesariana na gestação atual esteve associado a cesariana em gestação anterior (RP = 3,19; IC95 por cento: 2,64;3,84), idade gestacional > 40 semanas (RP = 1,32; IC95 por cento: 1,09;1,61), ser admitida com cervicodilatação até 4 cm (RP = 3,22; IC95 por cento: 2,31;4,50), líquido amniótico meconial (RP = 2,5; IC95 por cento: 2,05;3,06). Quanto ao recém-nascido, a cesariana associou-se a peso > 4kg (RP = 1,86; IC95 por cento: 1,29;2,66). Entre as mulheres com cesariana em gestação anterior, ter também parto normal prévio foi fator de proteção para cesariana na gestação atual (RP = 0,46; IC95 por cento 0,30;0,71). Fatores relacionados à condição fetal, como estresse fetal, líquido amniótico meconial, apresentação pélvica e macrossomia corresponderam a 47,8 por cento (175) das indicações para a realização da cesariana; condições ligadas ao mecanismo do parto, como parada de progressão, distócia funcional e distócia de rotação totalizaram 31,3 por cento (115) das indicações. CONCLUSÕES: A prevalência de cesariana mostrou-se dentro dos limites propostos pela Organização Mundial da Saúde. Mulheres com cesariana em gestação anterior, admitidas com até 4 cm de dilatação, idade gestacional > 40 semanas, com líquido amniótico meconial e recém-nascido > 4 kg tiveram maior risco para cesariana.

OBJECTIVE: To estimate the prevalence of cesarean sections in a birth center of a hospital and identify factors associated. METHODS: Cross-sectional study including medical records of 2,441 births assisted in a birth center in the city of São Paulo, southeastern Brazil, between March and April 2005. The dependent variable (type of delivery) included vaginal delivery and cesarean section. The independent variables were grouped into four categories: demographic characteristics; current and past obstetric history; intrapartum care; and perinatal outcomes. Prevalence ratios and 95 percent confidence intervals (95 percent CI) were estimated to assess the association between type of delivery and maternal and newborn variables. RESULTS: Of all deliveries, 14.9 percent were cesarean sections. Cesarean section in the current pregnancy was associated with past cesarean sections (PR = 3.19, 95 percentCI: 2.64,3.84); gestational age > 40 weeks (PR = 1.32, 95 percentCI: 1.09;1.61); cervical dilation of up to 4 cm on admission (PR = 3.22, 95 percentCI: 2.31;4.50); and meconium-stained amniotic fluid (PR = 2.5, 95 percentCI: 2.05;3.06). Regarding newborn characteristics cesarean section was associated with birth weight >4 kg (PR = 1.86, 95 percentCI: 1.29;2.66). Among women with history of past cesarean sections, having had also a prior vaginal delivery was a protective factor for cesarean section in the current pregnancy (PR = 0.46, 95 percentCI: 0.30;0.71). Factors related to fetal conditions including fetal stress, meconium-stained amniotic fluid, breech presentation and macrosomia accounted for 47.8 percent (175) while those related to the mechanism of birth including arrest disorders, and functional and rotation dystocia accounted for 31.3 percent (115) of all indications for a cesarean section. CONCLUSIONS: Prevalence of c-section was consistent with World Health Organization recommendations. Increased risk of c-section was associated with prior history of c-sections, cervical dilation of at least 4 cm upon admission, gestational age > 40 weeks, meconium-stained amniotic fluid, and birthweight > 4 kg.

OBJETIVO: Estimar la prevalencia de cesáreas en un centro de parto normal intra-hospitalario e identificar factores asociados. MÉTODOS: Estudio transversal con análisis de prontuarios de los 2.441 partos asistidos en marzo y abril de 2005 en Centro de Parto Normal de Sao Paulo, Sureste de Brasil. La variable dependiente (tipo de parto) fue clasificada como parto normal y operación cesárea. Las variables independientes fueron categorizadas en cuatro grupos: demográficas; historia obstétrica anterior y actual; asistencia intraparto; y resultados prenatales. La tasa de prevalencia y el intervalo con 95 por ciento de confianza (IC95 por ciento) fueron calculados para identificar asociación entre tipo de parto y variables maternas y del recién nacido. RESULTADOS: Del total de partos, 14,9 por ciento fueron operaciones cesáreas. Haber tenido parto por cesárea en la gestación actual estuvo asociada a cesárea en gestación anterior (RP=3,19; IC95 por ciento: 2,64;3,84), edad gestacional >40 semanas (RP=1,32;IC95 por ciento: 1,09;1,61), ser admitida con dilatación cervical hasta 4 cm (RP=3,22; IC95 por ciento: 2,31;4,50), liquido amniótico meconial (RP=2,5; IC95 por ciento: 2,05;3,06). con relación al recién nacido, la cesárea se asoció al peso>4kg (RP=1,86; IC 95 por ciento: 1,29;2,66). Entre las mujeres con cesárea en gestación anterior, tener también parto normal previo fue factor de protección para cesárea en la gestación actual (RP=0,46; IC95 por ciento: 0,30;0,71). Factores relacionados a la condición fetal, como estrés fetal, liquido amniótico meconial, presentación pélvica y macrosomia correspondieron a 41,8 por ciento (175) de las indicaciones para la realización de la cesárea; condiciones ligadas al mecanismo del parto, como parada de progresión, distoccia funcional y distoccia de rotación totalizaron 31,3 por ciento (115) de las indicaciones. CONCLUSIONES: La prevalencia de cesárea se mostró dentro de los límites propuestos por la Organización Mundial de la Salud. Mayor riesgo para cesárea fue asociado a cesárea en gestación anterior, dilatación cervical hasta 4 cm, edad gestacional >40 semanas, presencia de liquido amniótico meconial y peso del recién nacido >4 kg.

Cesarean sections in a birth center.

OBJECTIVE: To estimate the prevalence of cesarean sections in a birth center of a hospital and identify factors associated. METHODS: Cross-sectional study including medical records of 2,441 births assisted in a birth center in the city of São Paulo, southeastern Brazil, between March and April 2005. The dependent variable (type of delivery) included vaginal delivery and cesarean section. The independent variables were grouped into four categories: demographic characteristics; current and past obstetric history; intrapartum care; and perinatal outcomes. Prevalence ratios and 95% confidence intervals (95% CI) were estimated to assess the association between type of delivery and maternal and newborn variables. RESULTS: Of all deliveries, 14.9% were cesarean sections. Cesarean section in the current pregnancy was associated with past cesarean sections (PR = 3.19, 95%CI: 2.64,3.84); gestational age > 40 weeks (PR = 1.32, 95%CI: 1.09;1.61); cervical dilation of up to 4 cm on admission (PR = 3.22, 95%CI: 2.31;4.50); and meconium-stained amniotic fluid (PR = 2.5, 95%CI: 2.05;3.06). Regarding newborn characteristics cesarean section was associated with birth weight >4 kg (PR = 1.86, 95%CI: 1.29;2.66). Among women with history of past cesarean sections, having had also a prior vaginal delivery was a protective factor for cesarean section in the current pregnancy (PR = 0.46, 95%CI: 0.30;0.71). Factors related to fetal conditions including fetal stress, meconium-stained amniotic fluid, breech presentation and macrosomia accounted for 47.8% (175) while those related to the mechanism of birth including arrest disorders, functional dystocia and malposition accounted for 31,3% (115) of all indications for a cesarian section [corrected]. CONCLUSIONS: Prevalence of c-section was consistent with World Health Organization recommendations. Increased risk of c-section was associated with prior history of c-sections, cervical dilation of at least 4 cm upon admission, gestational age > 40 weeks, meconium-stained amniotic fluid, and birthweight > 4 kg.

[Results of childbirth care at a birthing center in Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil]. / Resultados da assistência ao parto no Centro de Parto Normal Dr. David Capistrano da Costa Filho em Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brasil.

This was a descriptive and retrospective study of 2,117 deliveries from January 2002 to July 2003 at the Dr. David Capistrano da Costa Filho Birthing Center in Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil. Widespread questions have been raised concerning the quality of services provided at birthing centers by obstetric nurses. The results of the current study were: 11.4% maternal transfer rate; 2.2% cesarean sections; 1.2% neonatal ICU admissions; and 1% 5-minute Apgar scores below 7. Delivery dystocia and the request for epidural anesthesia were the main reasons for maternal transfer, and respiratory distress was the main cause of neonatal ICU admission. Corrected neonatal mortality was 2 per 1,000 live births. The results at this birthing center did not differ significantly from those in a review of the international literature. The most striking finding was the low cesarean rate. Comparative studies and more comprehensive national data on low-risk gestations are needed.

[The puerperal infection in a delivery center: occurrence and predisposing factors]. / Infecção puerperal em Centro de Parto Normal: ocorrência e fatores predisponentes.

The Delivery Center (DC) provides obstetric assistance centered on the parturient's needs according to scientific evidences. This study aimed to verify the occurrence of puerperal infection in the DC and to compare the clinical obstetric characteristics of the women readmitted in the hospital with puerperal infection to those who were not readmitted in the hospital. It is an exploratory and non-experimental research with retrospective data collection. The population was based on 51 puerparae who received assistance in the DC, from 2000 to 2003. The results demonstrated that among 10,559 deliveries, 0.16% of them presented puerperal infection and the obstetric assistance given in the DC was related to the puerperal infection, only when considering the duration of the labor. It was concluded that the obstetric assistance given by this model of care brings benefits to the women.