A parallel between the historical evolution of the concept of health and the process of medicalization of childbirth Ana Beatriz Gomiero dos Santos, Renato Braz Mehanna Khamis

Abstract

This paper discusses the historical processes of evolution of the general concept of health and its gradual medicalization in the context of pregnancy and childbirth, aiming to draw a parallel between them. The hypothetical-deductive method was adopted, through a bibliographic review. Through the individual analysis of the mentioned processes, it was possible to observe that, in terms of health care, a mystical and religious character was gradually replaced by rationalism and scientific knowledge. In the specific context of childbirth, a process that began in the home and family environment and was guided by traditional knowledge was gradually medicalized and institutionalized. By drawing a parallel between the two processes, we can observe, at present, an exacerbated medical technicality and paternalism, which is countered by movements for the humanization of health care and childbirth.