Prenatal care for pregnant women: perceptions and limitations

Objective: Analyze prenatal care for homeless women during pregnancy. Method: a descriptive and qualitative study, carried out with nine pregnant women on the street, pregnant or puerperal women and two nurses who attended this clientele. The collection took place at strategic points for the homeless population of the municipality of Juiz de Fora, through semi-structured exchanges. The information was analyzed using Bardin's content analysistechnique. Results: four categories were obtained: prenatal care in the perception of homeless women; limitations for prenatal care; information received during prenatal care; and preparation of health professionals and services for the care of homeless women. Conclusion: there is a need for investment in public policies, specific health programs, as well as qualified and resolutive assistance from professionals and managers.