This study aimed to investigate the conception of women with physical disability regarding the support network for the exercising of motherhood. It is descriptive-exploratory research, with qualitative approach, whose data were collected through semistructured interviews with 12 women with physical disability, undertaken between April and June 2014. The technique of thematic analysis was used for the treatment of the information, and Symbolic Interactionism was used as the theoretical framework. The interviewees reported the importance of the support of the partner, of family members, and of health professionals, during pregnancy and the postpartum, for them to be able to exercise the maternal role. The absence of this support influenced their conceptions regarding their capacity in this function. One can observe the need to promote the reproductive health of the person with a disability, so as to mitigate the stigmas and thus provide them with appropriate support. In addition to this, the health professionals must be trained to understand holistically their needs and rights.
Nursing; Reproductive health; Disabled persons