Autonomia feminina na escolha da via de parto: uma revisão integrativa da literatura

Abstract

Justification: The choice of the birth method represents one of the most significant moments in a woman's journey during pregnancy. Although this decision-making process should be guided by autonomy, qualified information, and respect for individual preferences, it is still often influenced by multiple factors that limit the woman's will. Objective: To identify the factors that interfere with women's autonomy in the conscious choice of the mode of birth. Method: This is an integrative literature review. Data collection was carried out between August and December 2024 in the SciELO, LILACS, BDENF, PubMed/MEDLINE, and BVS databases, using the descriptors and Boolean operators – “Childbirth” AND “Obstetrics” OR “Mode of Delivery” OR “Women’s Health” AND “Choice”. Inclusion criteria were: studies in Portuguese and conducted in Brazil; exclusion criteria included studies not available in full, integrative reviews, and undergraduate thesis papers. Results and Discussion: The choice of the birth method in Brazil is influenced by structural, cultural, and psychological factors that affect women's autonomy. Barriers such as misinformation, unilateral medical decisions, and less humanized models of care were identified. Final Considerations: Autonomy in the choice of birth method aims to strengthen women's protagonism. However, in practice, there are still factors that hinder its effective implementation. Women with greater access to information and adequate/qualified support tend to exercise their autonomy more actively, understanding that any method is valid as long as it aligns with their clinical conditions and personal preferences.