Aim: to describe how high-risk pregnant women experienced the induction of labor and to discuss the
feelings arising during that moment. Methods: a descriptive study with a qualitative approach, conducted
with 10 high-risk puerperae who had labor induced in a university hospital located in the city of Rio de
Janeiro. Data collection took place between March and April of 2015 through a semi-structured interview.
Thematic Content Analysis was used to analyze the data. Results: the feelings revealed were acceptance,
resignation, pain, fear and dissatisfaction. Positive feelings, such as love and belief, emerged regarding the
child’s birth. Conclusion: the puerperae mostly present feelings of resignation, suffering and dissatisfaction
when experiencing labor induction. The practices adopted do not help to establish the caring relationship
needed at this unique and feminine moment, leading to a requirement for greater monitoring by the nursing
staff and other healthcare professionals.