BACKGROUND:
Women's childbirth experiences are essential for quality midwifery care. Understanding them allows for practices respecting autonomy and dignity, aligning with international recommendations for positive childbirth and strengthening midwives' transformative role in health systems.

OBJECTIVES:
To explore the experiences of women who received childbirth care in high-complexity hospitals in Chile's Metropolitan Region in 2024.

METHODS:
A qualitative study with a hermeneutic phenomenological approach was conducted. Ten semi-structured interviews were carried out with women who had spontaneous deliveries in high-complexity hospitals. The analysis followed a rigorous seven-stage process that included identifying relevant statements, formulating codes, and constructing categories to obtain a comprehensive description of the phenomenon. The sample was determined by discourse saturation. Anonymity, privacy, and informed consent were guaranteed. The study was approved by the Ethics Committee of the University of Chile.

RESULTS:
Regarding effective communication, women emphasized how midwives who used comprehensible language and verified understanding generated greater trust. Non-verbal elements (eye contact, facial expressions) created experiences of emotional containment. Concerning respect and dignity, they valued freedom of choice and non-pharmacological pain management (aromatherapy, kinesthetic ball, freedom of movement) facilitated by midwives. They identified that birth plans, although requested, were rarely implemented in obstetric practice. Emotional support was strengthened by the presence of a companion and immediate bonding facilitated by the midwifery team. The moment of birth emerged as a key point where negative perceptions of the experience shifted positively.

CONCLUSIONS:
Woman-centered midwifery improves childbirth experiences. In Chile, reproductive health policies and awareness of obstetric violence have shifted practices. The study emphasizes the continued need to strengthen midwifery models prioritizing women's experiences for quality care.

KEY MESSAGE:
Prioritize effective communication, respect, and emotional support. Transform practice by eliminating biases and centering care on women's needs. Recognize women as central to quality midwifery care models. Poster session 2 (Group A)