The objective of this study was to identify the knowledge women in childbirth have regarding gestational hypertension disease (DHEG); to learn their perceptions of its risk and gravity; and to understand the repercussions of DHEG for these women and their families. This is a qualitative research aiming at an exploratory study. Data collection took place through individual semi-structured interviews with ten women in childbirth who were diagnosed with DHEG and data analysis was performed using the Analysis of Content. So, thematic categories emerged addressing the women´s knowledge of DHEG; their perceptions about the diagnosis and the professional care offered; and the repercussions DHEG had for them and their families. The study highlights the necessity to rethink and to reorganize the model of perinatal care, not only at the tertiary level but also at the basic health centers.
Pre-eclampsia; Pregnancy, high-risk; Comprehensive health care