Cuidado à saúde bucal no pré-natal odontológico: percepções das gestantes e profissionais da atenção primária à saúde

Abstract

The gestational period represents a strategic opportunity for oral health education and prevention, given the pregnant woman's social role as a multiplier of information. This study aims to understand the perceptions of pregnant women regarding oral health care at the José de Carvalho Peixoto Basic Health Unit in the municipality of Nossa Senhora do Socorro/SE, within the context of the Family Health Strategy. A qualitative, exploratory, and descriptive study was conducted, focusing on the experiences, perceptions, and meanings attributed to dental care during prenatal visits; data were gathered through semi-structured interviews using a specific guide comprising open-ended questions on the topic. Subsequently, an investigative approach was employed, collecting information from discussion circles involving pregnant women and professionals, as well as individual interviews with both groups. The narratives were transcribed and analyzed using Braun & Clarke’s thematic content analysis approach. The IRAMUTEQ software was used to organize and categorize the data. The hypothesis is that adherence to dental care during this period is limited by both subjective and structural factors. By highlighting the need for a humanized, interdisciplinary, and comprehensive approach, this study seeks to strengthen public policies and contribute to improving the quality of maternal and child care within the Unified Health System (SUS), emphasizing the inclusion of oral health in prenatal care. This Master's thesis was produced as part of the *stricto sensu* Professional Master's Program in Family Health (PROFSAÚDE).