Apoio social ao pai no contexto da gestação de alto risco

Abstract

Objective: To analyze the experience of social support for the father in the context of high-risk pregnancy, with attention to the place of prenatal care in this process. Method: Qualitative research, developed from the references of Symbolic Interactionism and thematic narrative. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews with six men whose wives/partners were pregnant at high risk. Data were submitted to Narrative Analysis with a Holistic Approach and Emphasis on Content. Results: The need for information about gestational risk is presented with a view to acting in the face of intercurrences with the woman. With the progression of the pregnancy and the greater certainty of the viability of the birth, the father intends to guarantee conditions for the care, development and life of the child. The partner emerges as the main support for the man, although family members, friends and professionals are part of the process. Final considerations: Social support influences the development of the father's role in the context of a high-risk pregnancy situation. In early times, the need for informational support was highlighted and, in later times, instrumental and financial support to guarantee the role of provider socially attributed to him.