Qualitative research, with an exploratory and descriptive approach, was conducted between September 2011 and February 2012, aimed at revealing the possibility of inclusion of the partner in deliveries in institutions that currently restrict their presence. Twelve nurses responsible for obstetric centers and five technical directors of health institutions of Santa Catarina, who did not allow or infrequently allowed the presence of the partner during delivery, were interviewed. Data were analyzed using Bardin Content Analysis, with the support of ATLAS.ti software. The possibilities of including the partner are permitted in three categories: I – Labor pain process; II - Receptiveness of professionals to the partner; and III - Empowerment of patients. Although some institutions limit the presence of the partner, they describe aspects that favor their inclusion. From the results presented, it is suggested that these enabling elements could be bolstered with management strategies, ongoing learning and intersectoral actions. © 2016 Associacao Brasileira de Pos - Graduacao em Saude Coletiva. All rights reserved.21825552564