This study aimed to know the maternal experiences on the assistance received during labor process and delivery in which his son suffered severe perinatal asphyxia. This is a descriptive and exploratory research with a qualitative approach. The data were collected through semi-structured interviews, with six women who experienced the process of parturition in which their sons suffered severe perinatal asphyxia, in the period of 2005-2007 in the city of Rio Grande / RS. The results showed positive and negative aspects of assistance received during the process of parturition. As positive results emerged the dialogue, confidence and agility in attendance. As negative aspects are highlighted the lack of professional prepared to assist the woman at the moment of complications during the labor process and delivery, the dehumanization of assistance, and the absence of a companion during the process. It emphasizes the need to review the assistance provided to women in the process of parturition.
Asphyxia Neonatorum; Nursing; Parturition; Maternal and Child Health