The first Birth Center of the Family Health Program has specific symbols. The purpose was the identification of symbols that permeate the ideas, beliefs, values, practices, and principles that guide the assistance given at the Birth Center. Ethnography was the research method; thematic oral history was the resource employed to interview obstetric nurses in the House. Results: The House has the symbolic value of innovation in assisted deliveries. Humanized care to pregnant women is the principle that guide practices. Final considerations: The symbols of the House and the care practices developed constitute a reference to the other birth centers being proposed in Brazil, and should be known by obstetrical nurses.
delivery; normal birth center; obstetric nursing; culture; care