INTEGRATIVE AND COMPLEMENTARY HEALTH PRACTICES IN OBSTETRIC CARE: EXPERIENCE WITH THE IMPLEMENTATION OF A COMPREHENSIVE CARE UNIT AT A PUBLIC MATERNITY HOSPITAL IN THE AMAZON

• DOI: https://doi.org/10.22533/at.ed.51572142603078

• Palavras-chave: Integrative and Complementary Health Practices; Humanization of Childbirth; Anthropology of Health; Neuroscience; Obstetric Nursing.

• Keywords: Integrative and Complementary Health Practices; Humanization of Childbirth; Anthropology of Health; Neuroscience; Obstetric Nursing.

• Abstract:

  Integrative and Complementary Health Practices (PICS) have been gaining increasing prominence in contemporary health care systems, especially following the consolidation of the National Policy on Integrative and Complementary Practices (PNPIC) within Brazil’s Unified Health System. This study presents a critical analysis of the implementation of an Integrative and Complementary Practices Room at the Azilda Marreiro Maternity Hospital, located in Manaus, Amazonas, between March 2019 and April 2020. It is a descriptive study, based on an experience report, grounded in the fields of Public Health, Anthropology of Health, and Neuroscience. The practices offered included Reiki, Therapeutic Touch, Auriculotherapy, Aromatherapy, Music Therapy, Yoga, Meditation, Chromotherapy, and Shantala, intended for women in labor, their companions, and healthcare professionals. The observed results indicated a reduction in anxiety, an improved childbirth experience, a strengthened bond between the companion and the woman in labor, as well as reports of improved quality of life among staff members. Also noteworthy is an approximate 5% reduction in cesarean section rates during the analyzed period. It is argued that ICPs constitute a strategy for humanizing care and strengthening the biopsychosocial paradigm, contributing to the development of more comprehensive and culturally sensitive care models.