Avaliação da adequação da assistência pré-natal na rede SUS do Município do Rio de Janeiro, Brasil

Associations between primary healthcare and infant health outcomes: a cohort analysis of low-income mothers in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

Background

Expanding primary healthcare to urban poor populations is a priority in many low-and middle-income countries and is essential to achieve universal health coverage (UHC). Between 2008 and 2016 the city of Rio de Janeiro undertook an ambitious programme to rapidly expand primary care to low-income areas through the family health strategy (FHS). Infant health impacts of this roll out are unknown. This study examines associations between maternal FHS utilisation and birth outcomes, neonatal and infant mortality.

Methods

A cohort of 75,339 live births (January 2009-December 2014) to low-income mothers in Rio de Janeiro was linked to primary care, birth, hospital and death records. The relationship between maternal FHS use and infant health outcomes was assessed through logistic regression with inverse probability treatment weighting and regression adjustment. Socioeconomic inequalities in the associations between FHS use and outcomes were explored through interactions. Primary outcomes were neonatal and infant death. Thirteen secondary outcomes were also examined to explore other important health outcomes and potential mechanisms.

Results

A total of 9002 (12.0%) infants were born to mothers in the cohort who used FHS services either before pregnancy or in the first two trimesters. There was a total of 527 neonatal and 893 infant deaths. Maternal FHS usage during the first two trimesters was associated with substantial reductions in neonatal [adjusted odds ratio (aOR): 0.527, 95% confidence interval (95% CI): 0.345; 0.806] and infant mortality (aOR: 0.672, 95% CI: 0.48; 0.924). Infants born to lower-income mothers and those without formal employment had larger reductions in neonatal and infant mortality associated with FHS use. Maternal FHS in the first two trimesters use was also associated with more antenatal care consultations and a lower risk of low birth weight and preterm birth.

Interpretation

Expanding primary care to low-income populations in Rio de Janeiro was associated with improved infant health and health equity benefits.

Funding

DFID/MRC/Wellcome Trust/ESRC.

Direct costs of prematurity and factors associated with birth and maternal conditions

OBJECTIVE

To estimate the direct costs due to hospital care for extremely, moderate, and late preterm newborns, from the perspective of a public hospital in 2018. The second objective was to investigate whether factors associated with birth and maternal conditions explain the costs and length of hospital stay.

METHODS

This is a cost-of-illness study, with data extracted from hospital admission authorization forms and medical records of a large public hospital in the Federal District, Brazil. The association of characteristics of preterm newborns and mothers with costs was estimated by linear regression with gamma distribution. In the analysis, the calculation of the parameters of the estimates (B), with a confidence interval of 95% (95%CI), was adopted. The uncertainty parameters were estimated by the 95% confidence interval and standard error using the Bootstrapping method, with 1,000 samples. Deterministic sensitivity analysis was performed, considering lower and upper limits of 95%CI in the variation of each cost component.

RESULTS

A total of 147 preterm newborns were included. We verified an average cost of BRL 1,120 for late preterm infants, BRL 6,688 for moderate preterm infants, and BRL 17,395 for extremely preterm infants. We also observed that factors associated with the cost were gestational age (B = -123.00; 95%CI: -241.60 to -4.50); hospitalization in neonatal ICU (B = 6,932.70; 95%CI: 5,309.40-8,556.00), and number of prenatal consultations (B = -227.70; 95%CI: -403.30 to -52.00).

CONCLUSIONS

We found a considerable direct cost resulting from the care of preterm newborns. Extreme prematurity showed a cost 15.5 times higher than late prematurity. We also verified that a greater number of prenatal consultations and gestational age were associated with a reduction in the costs of prematurity.

Assessment of the completeness of filling the pregnant woman's card from the Ministry of Health: a national, cross-sectional study

This article aims to evaluate the completeness of the pregnant woman's card filling according to a model standardized by the Ministry of Health. Hospital based, nationwide, cross-sectional study conducted between 2011 and 2012, evaluated data from pregnant women's cards. Variables related to personal, obstetric history and current pregnancy data were used to assess completeness. We used the Kotelchuck index for quantitative evaluation. We analysed 6,577 cards, equivalent to 39% of the cards presented at the time of delivery. The mean completeness was overall "bad" in Brazil and macro-regions, except in the Southern region. Nationwide, the mean completion was "regular" for personal antecedents, "good" for obstetric history, and "bad" for fields related to the current pregnancy. Prenatal care was adequate for 58% of pregnant women. We observed a reduced use of the card recommended by the Ministry of Health and failures in the completeness of filling valuable information of the pregnant woman's card, related to the current pregnancy.

[Longitudinal care: factors associated with adherence to postpartum follow-up according to data from PMAQ-AB]

The aim was to identify factors of longitudinal care associated with women´s adherence to postpartum consultation in Brazil. This was a cross-sectional study of data from 19,177 postpartum women who participated in the external assessment of the third cycle of the Brazilian National Program for Improvement of Access and Quality of Basic Care (PMAQ-AB), 2017. The dependent variable was postpartum consultation, and the independent variables, grouped hierarchically, were sociodemographic and economic at the distal level and issues analogous to longitudinal care at the proximal level. Multiple logistic regression analysis was performed with hierarchical entry of variables, where sociodemographic and economic variables were used to adjust the model. The results showed that 53% of women had undergone postpartum follow-up. The odds of adherence to postpartum follow-up were higher in women who received a home visit by a community health agents in the first week after childbirth (OR = 4.81), those with seven or more prenatal consultations (OR = 2.74), those who had sought care at the health unit in question (OR = 1.21), and those who had been seen by the same physician (OR = 1.14). In conclusion, the proportion of postpartum consultations was low (53%), and adherence to postpartum follow-up was higher when women received visits by community health agents, were accompanied by the same physician, had regular prenatal care, and had a specific healthcare unit as their regular source of care. Consistent longitudinal care was identified as an attribute of primary care that should be strengthened to improve postpartum care.

Experiência de gestantes na consulta de Enfermagem com a construção do plano de parto

RESUMO Objetivo Descrever a experiência das gestantes atendidas na Consulta de Enfermagem a partir de 37 semanas e que elaboraram seu plano de parto. Método Pesquisa exploratória qualitativa, com 19 gestantes a partir de 37 semanas vinculadas à maternidade de risco habitual em Curitiba, Paraná, e que passaram pela consulta de enfermagem entre novembro de 2019 e março de 2020. Os dados foram coletados mediante entrevista e submetidos a análise de conteúdo temática. Resultados As gestantes apresentaram desconhecimento sobre assuntos relacionados ao parto, o que contribui para o surgimento de dúvidas, medos e inseguranças. Também não conheciam, ou conheciam de forma superficial, o plano de parto. A consulta de enfermagem e o plano de parto na maternidade contribuíram para o esclarecimento de dúvidas, redução da ansiedade, possibilidade de fortalecimento e empoderamento da gestante e do acompanhante diante da oferta de informações para o parto vaginal e o estabelecimento de vínculo com a maternidade. Conclusões e implicações para a prática Adequados à realidade e focados na individualidade da gestante, a consulta de enfermagem e o plano de parto foram respectivamente evidenciados como espaço para educação em saúde e ferramenta educativa, mostrando-se eficientes para a atuação do enfermeiro e melhora da assistência pré-natal.

Assistência pré-natal e perinatal em Governador Valadares, Minas Gerais, Brasil

Resumo Introdução: O acompanhamento pré-natal e as condutas adotadas durante o parto são essenciais para garantir o bom desenvolvimento da gestação, prevenir complicações e proporcionar um parto saudável, sem impacto na saúde da puérpera e do recém-nascido. Objetivo: Analisar a assistência pré-natal e perinatal oferecida em Governador Valadares, Minas Gerais, e verificar se há associação entre a adequação do pré-natal e os fatores socioeconômicos, demográficos, comportamentais e reprodutivos. Métodos: Estudo transversal com base de dados pré-existente. Para a análise da adequação do pré-natal foram utilizados três critérios: 1) início até 16ª semana e número mínimo de consultas de acordo com a idade gestacional; 2) práticas dos profissionais nas consultas de pré-natal; 3) orientações oferecidas às gestantes pelos profissionais. Para a análise dos dados foi utilizada regressão logística multivariada. Resultados: Participaram do estudo 437 puérperas. A assistência pré-natal foi considerada adequada para 72,5%, 93,1% e 50,1% das puérperas, considerando os critérios 1, 2 e 3, respectivamente. As gestantes que apresentaram maior chance de terem o pré-natal inadequado, com relação ao critério 1, foram as com menor escolaridade (RC = 1,68; p = 0,046), que não possuíam companheiro (RC = 2,18; p = 0,002), que não trabalharam durante a gestação (RC = 2,18; p = 0,003) e as que não planejaram a gravidez (RC = 1,76; p = 0,023). Com relação à assistência perinatal, a presença de acompanhante e contato pele a pele foram apropriados, mas a amamentação na primeira hora de vida foi inadequada. Conclusão: Observou-se a necessidade de aprimorar as orientações fornecidas pelos profissionais e incluir a amamentação na primeira hora de vida. Os resultados podem contribuir para otimizar os serviços de saúde materno-infantil em Governador Valadares.

Prenatal and perinatal care in Governador Valadares, Minas Gerais state, Brazil

Abstract Introduction: Prenatal care and the procedures adopted during childbirth are essential to ensure a healthy pregnancy and delivery and prevent complications, without affecting the health of the mother and newborn. Objective: To analyze the prenatal and perinatal care provided in Governador Valadares, Minas Gerais state, Brazil, and to determine whether there is an association between adequate prenatal care and socioeconomic, demographic, behavioral and reproductive factors. Methods: Cross-sectional study with a pre-existing database. The adequacy of prenatal care was analyzed based on three criteria: 1) onset up to the 16th week and a minimum number of checkups according to gestational age; 2) professional practices during prenatal checkups; 3) counseling given to the pregnant women by healthcare professionals. Multivariate logistic regression was used for data analysis. Results: Participants were 437 postpartum women. Prenatal care was considered adequate for 72.5, 93.1 and 50.1% of the participants based on criteria 1, 2 and 3, respectively. The pregnant women who were most likely to receive inadequate prenatal care in relation to criterion 1 were those with the lowest schooling level (OR = 1.68; p = 0.046), who were single (OR = 2.18; p = 0.002), did not work during their pregnancy (OR = 2.18; p = 0.003) and whose pregnancy was unplanned (OR = 1.76; p = 0.023). With respect to perinatal care, the presence of a birth companion and skin-to-skin contact were adequate, but breastfeeding in the first hour of life was not. Conclusion: There is a need to improve the counseling provided by healthcare professionals and include breastfeeding in the first hour of life. The results could contribute to optimizing maternal and child health services in Governador Valadares.

Basic Health Units services quality assessment through Kano and SERVQUAL models

Purpose

The present research aims to evaluate the quality of services provided by the Basic Health Units (UBS) of the Unified Health System (SUS) located in the city of Recife, in the state of Pernambuco, Brazil, using the Kano model integrated with the dimensions of quality proposed by the service quality (SERVQUAL) model.

Design/methodology/approach

The research was classified as bibliographic, descriptive, quantitative and surveyable. A structured questionnaire based on the Kano Model integrated with the dimensions of quality proposed by the SERVQUAL model, applied online through Google Forms. The questionnaires were distributed on social networks, obtaining a non-probabilistic sample of 120 individuals, collected for convenience.

Findings

Through the analysis of the Kano Model, it was possible to observe that all the investigated attributes are classified as one-dimensional. Among the attributes that deserve to be highlighted are attributes “Clean and pleasant environment”, “Reliability and security of information”, “Knowledge of employees to perform services”, “Service performed in the promised time”, “Polite and kind staff in dealing with users” and “Effectiveness of the service provided” due to having the longest intervals when considering the satisfaction and dissatisfaction coefficients, above 1.575. These attributes must be considered as critical priorities when implementing improvements, since their presence considerably increases users' satisfaction, as well as their absence generates great dissatisfaction.

Originality/value

The research is original and justified by the potential use of a quality assessment tool in the public health service, especially primary care. It is noteworthy that there are few works that integrate the Kano and SERVQUAL models applied in the public health service and that this integration can contribute to the national and international literature, mainly in the identification and prioritization of areas for improvement.

Indicators of prenatal care received by Family Health Strategy users in cities of the State of Paraíba

Introduction: Prenatal care benefits maternal and neonatal health. Objective: To evaluate indicators of prenatal care of users from Family Health Strategy in cities of the State of Paraíba, Brazil, and to investigate differences according to the social context and the health team. Methods: Cross-sectional study based on the questionnaire application to 897 individuals. Multivariate logistic regression was performed to verify the association between social characteristics and type of health team with indicators of the prenatal care (time of beginning, number of consultations for gestational age at delivery, use of ferrous sulfate, vaccination against tetanus before or during the gestation), treated as dependent variables. Results: Among interviewees, 81.0% began prenatal care in the first quarter of pregnancy and 83.0% had at least six consultations. Ferrous sulfate use and tetanus immunization were reported by respectively 94.9% and 88.8% of the interviewed women. Participants living with a partner, with higher socioeconomic level, and not participating in the Bolsa Família Program were more likely to have adequate beginning time of prenatal care, number of consultations and supplementation with ferrous sulfate. Beginning of prenatal care in the first quarter and having at least six consultations were associated with low food insecurity, while maternal work outside the home, high social support, family functionality and attendance by teams from Programa Mais Médicos favored the prenatal beginning time. Conclusion: The study showed satisfactory indicators of prenatal care, influenced by the socioeconomic characteristics and the social support of the pregnant woman.

Evaluation of prenatal care according to indicators for the Prenatal and Birth Humanization Program

Abstract Objectives: to evaluate prenatal care provided to low-risk pregnant women users of the Sistema Único de Saúde (SUS) (Public Health System) in the city of Joinville, SC. Methods: this is a cross-sectional observational study carried out from March 2018 to February 2019, through interview and analysis of the Pregnant Card of puerperal over 18 years old, from Joinville, who underwent prenatal care at SUS, excluding recent given up puerperal. Prenatal care was evaluated according to the recommended criteria by the Prenatal and Birth Humanization Program. Results: 683 mothers were interviewed. The criteria with the highest levels of adequacy were accessibility (99.6%), early initiation on prenatal care (92.7%) and 6 or more consultations (87.1%) and the criteria with the lowest rates of adequacy were the set of guidelines (17.7%) and the third and first trimester exams (42.5% and 63.5% respectively). Conclusion: it is concluded that the prenatal care provided by SUS in the city of Joinville, despite the almost universal accessibility, the early onset and the prevalence of puerperal women with more than 6 consultations, showed a sharp decline in the analysis of the recommended indicators.

Self-perceived evaluation of prenatal care: a hierarchical analysis by the users of Primary Health Care services in Brazil

Abstract Objective: to analyze the factors associated with positive self-perceived evaluation of prenatal care among users of Primary Health Care (PHC). Methods: the analytical cross-sectional study was carried out with secondary data from the 3rd Module of the 2nd cycle (2013 / 2014) of the External Evaluation of the Improvement of Access and Quality of Primary Care Program (PMAQ-AB – Portuguese acronym), collected from users in the Basic Health Units (BHU) that joined the PMAQ-AB in Brazil. The hierarchical analysis was performed using a theoretical model and logistic regression was performed between the self-perceived evaluation (positive - very good/good or negative - regular/poor/very bad) and the sociodemographic characteristics, prenatal care and health service evaluation (p<0.05). Results: the sample consisted of 9,922 women and 81.7% rated care as very good/good. In the final model, positive evaluation was associated to women with incomplete higher education or over (OR=1.05; CI95%=1.01-1.09; p=0.010), who underwent the VDRL exam (OR=1.07; CI95%=1.01-1.14; p=0.020), consultation with the same professional (OR=1.07; CI95%=1.02-1.12; p=0.010), received guidance on the gynecological preventive exam (OR=1.05; CI95%=1.01-1.08; p=0.007), believed that guidance helped with pregnancy and child care (OR=1.24; CI95%=1.05-1.46; p=0.012), evaluated the BHU structure as very good/good (OR=1.19; CI95%=:1.14-1.24; p<0.001) and would not change BHU or team (OR=1.62; CI95%=1.48-1.68; p<0.001). Conclusion: the positive evaluation of prenatal care was associated with sociodemographic factors, prenatal care and health service evaluation.

Fetal and infant mortality trends according to the avoidability of causes of death and maternal education

OBJECTIVE

To estimate trends of fetal (FMR) and neonatal (NMR) mortality rates due to avoidable causes and maternal education in the city of Rio de Janeiro (2000-2018).

METHODS

Ecological time series study. Mortality and Live Birth Information System Data. The List of Avoidable Causes of Death Due to Interventions of the Brazilian Health System was used for neonatal deaths and an adaptation for fetal deaths, according to maternal education indicators (low <4 and high ≥12, years of study). Joinpoint regression models were used to estimate trends in FMR, based on one thousand births, and NMR, based on one thousand live births.

RESULTS

FMR decreased from 11.0 to 9.3% and NMR from 11.3 to 7.8% (2000/2018). In 2006, FMR (10.5%) exceeded NMR (9.0%), remaining higher. From 2000 to 2018, the annual decrease of FMR was 0.8% (2000 to 2018) and of NMR, 3.8% until 2007, decreasing to 1.1% by 2011; from then on, it remained stable. Avoidable causes, especially those reducible by adequate prenatal care, showed higher rates. Both FMR and NMR for low-education women were higher than those for the high-education level, the difference being much more pronounced for FMR, and at the end of the period: low- and high-education FMR were respectively 16.4 and 4.5% (2000) and 48.5 and 3.9% (2018), and for NMR, 18.2 and 6.7% (2000) and 28.4 and 5.0% (2018).

CONCLUSION

The favorable trend of decreasing mortality was not observed for children of mothers with low education, revealing inequalities. The causes were mostly avoidable, being related to prenatal care and childbirth.

CD, de Bortoli MC, Toma TS, Chapman EMG, Barreto JOM. Barriers to implementing guideline recommendations to improve childbirth care: a rapid review of evidence

OBJECTIVE

To identify potential barriers to the implementation of the National Childbirth Guidelines in Brazil based on the best available global evidence.

METHOD

A rapid review of evidence was performed in six databases in March/April 2019. Secondary studies published in English, Spanish, or Portuguese with a focus on barriers of any nature relating to the implementation of the Guidelines were retrieved.

RESULTS

Twenty-three documents (21 reviews and two practice guides) were included in the review. The barriers identified were grouped into 52 meaning categories and then reorganized into nine thematic clusters: delivery and childbirth care model, human resource management, knowledge and beliefs, gender relations, health care service management, attitudes and behaviors, communication, socioeconomic conditions, and political interests.

CONCLUSIONS

The results show that combined approaches may be required to address different barriers to the implementation of the Guidelines. For successful implementation, it is essential to engage health care leaders, professionals, and users in the effort to change the delivery and childbirth care model. Also necessary is the development of intersectoral initiatives to improve the socioeconomic conditions of women and families and to curtail gender inequalities.

Antenatal and Postnatal Maternal Depressive Symptoms and Trajectories and Child Hospitalization up to 24 Months of Life: Findings From the 2015 Pelotas (Brazil) Birth Cohort Study

Objective

To examine the association between antenatal and postnatal maternal depression symptoms, and child hospitalization during the first 2 years of life in the 2015 Pelotas Birth Cohort Study.

Study design

This is an observational study. Maternal depressive symptoms of 4275 mothers were measured using the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale. Hospitalization of the child for any reason was assessed using maternal report. Bivariate analysis and multivariate Poisson regressions were used to assess the association between maternal depressive symptoms and child hospitalization.

Results

Compared with children of mothers with low depressive symptoms, children whose mothers experienced significant antenatal depressive symptoms were 1.74 (95% CI, 1.16-2.60) times more likely to be hospitalized by 3 months of age, and 2.14 (95% CI, 1.46-3.14) times more likely up to 24 months. For children whose mothers experienced severe postnatal depressive symptoms at 3 months, the risks for hospitalization by age 12 months were 1.84 (95% CI, 1.39-2.45) higher than children whose mothers had low depressive symptoms. There was an increased risk of hospitalization for children according to the severity of depressive trajectories across time.

Conclusions

Maternal depressive symptoms are a risk factor for hospitalization in children up to 2 years of age, and this risk increases with increased severity of depression. These results have public health relevance for decreasing the risk factors in mothers that can lead to hospitalization in children.

CD, de Bortoli MC, Toma TS, Chapman EMG, Barreto EJOM. [Barriers to implementing guideline recommendations to improve childbirth care: rapid review of evidenceObstáculos a la aplicación de las recomendaciones para la atención del parto normal: revisión rápida de evidencia]

OBJECTIVE

To identify potential barriers to the implementation of the National Childbirth Guidelines in Brazil based on the best available global evidence.

METHOD

A rapid review of evidence was performed in six databases in March/April 2019. Secondary studies published in English, Spanish, or Portuguese with a focus on barriers of any nature relating to the implementation of the Guidelines were retrieved.

RESULTS

Twenty-three documents (21 reviews and two practice guides) were included in the review. The barriers identified were grouped into 52 meaning categories and then reorganized into nine thematic clusters: delivery and childbirth care model, human resource management, knowledge and beliefs, gender relations, health care service management, attitudes and behaviors, communication, socioeconomic conditions, and political interests.

CONCLUSIONS

The results show that combined approaches may be required to address different barriers to the implementation of the Guidelines. For successful implementation, it is essential to engage health care leaders, professionals, and users in the effort to change the delivery and childbirth care model. Also necessary is the development of intersectoral initiatives to improve the socioeconomic conditions of women and families and to curtail gender inequalities.

Clinical characteristics and risk factors for mortality in obstetric patients with severe COVID-19 in Brazil: a surveillance database analysis

OBJECTIVE

To describe clinical characteristics of pregnant and postpartum women with severe COVID-19 in Brazil and to examine risk factors for mortality.

DESIGN

Cross-sectional study based on secondary surveillance database analysis.

SETTING

Nationwide Brazil.

POPULATION OR SAMPLE

978 Brazilian pregnant and postpartum women notified as COVID-19 Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome (ARDS) cases with complete outcome (death or cure) up to 18 June 2020.

METHODS

Data was abstracted from the Brazilian ARDS Surveillance System (ARDS-SS) database. All eligible cases were included. Data on demographics, clinical characteristics, intensive care resources use and outcomes were collected. Risk factors for mortality were examined by multivariate logistic regression.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Case fatality rate.

RESULTS

We identified 124 maternal deaths, corresponding to a case fatality rate among COVID-19 ARDS cases in the obstetric population of 12.7%. At least one comorbidity was present in 48.4% of fatal cases compared with 24.9% in survival cases. Among women who died, 58.9% were admitted to ICU, 53.2% had invasive ventilation and 29.0% had no respiratory support. The multivariate logistic regression showed that the main risk factors for maternal death by COVID-19 were being postpartum at onset of ARDS, obesity, diabetes and cardiovascular disease, whereas white ethnicity had a protective effect.

CONCLUSIONS

Negative outcomes of COVID-19 in this population are affected by clinical characteristics but social determinants of health also seem to play a role. It is urgent to reinforce containment measures targeting the obstetric population and ensure high quality care throughout pregnancy and the postpartum period.

TWEETABLE ABSTRACT

A total of 124 COVID-19 maternal deaths were identified in Brazil. Symptoms onset at postpartum and comorbidities are risk factors.

Maternal mortality and COVID-19

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to collect and analyze data from different sources to have a general overview of COVID-19-related maternal deaths in Brazil, as well as to compare data with worldwide reports.

STUDY DESIGN

We systematically searched data about COVID-19 maternal deaths from the Brazilian Ministry of Health surveillance system, State Departments of Health epidemiological reports, and media coverage. Data about timing of symptom onset and death (pregnancy or postpartum), gestational age, mode of birth, maternal age, comorbidities and/or risk factors, date of death, and place of death were retrieved when available.

RESULTS

We identified 20 COVID-19-related maternal deaths, age range 20-43 years. Symptoms onset was reported as on pregnancy for 12 cases, postpartum for 3 cases, and during the cesarean section for 1 case (missing data for 4). In 16 cases, death occurred in the postpartum period. At least one comorbidity or risk factor was present in 11 cases (missing data for 4). Asthma was the most common risk factor (5/11). Ten cases occurred in the Northeast region, and nine cases occurred in the Southeast region (5 of them in São Paulo, the first epicenter of COVID-19 in the country).

CONCLUSIONS

To the best of our knowledge, this is the largest available series of maternal deaths due to COVID-19. Barriers to access healthcare, differences in pandemic containment measures in the country and high prevalence of concomitant risk factors for COVID-19 severe disease may play a role in the observed disparity compared to worldwide reports on maternal outcomes.

Factors associated with a positive childbirth experience in Brazilian women: A cross-sectional study

BACKGROUND

Having a positive childbirth experience is an increasingly valued outcome. Few studies evaluated the women's satisfaction with childbirth through face-to-face interviews out of the health service environment. The objective of this study was to identify factors associated with a higher level of satisfaction with the childbirth experience among Brazilian women.

METHODS

This cross-sectional study involved 287 women giving birth in two hospitals in southern Brazil. Women who gave birth to healthy newborns at term were randomly selected. Face-to-face interviews were conducted 31-37 days after delivery, at the mothers' homes, using a structured questionnaire. Satisfaction with the childbirth experience was measured using a Likert-type scale ranging from very satisfied to very dissatisfied. Prevalence ratios (PR) were estimated using Poisson regression with robust variance.

RESULTS

Following hierarchical multivariate analysis, the following factors remained associated with a higher level of satisfaction with the childbirth experience: being satisfied with antenatal care (PR=1.30; 95% confidence interval [95%CI]=1.06-1.59), understanding the information provided by health professionals during labor and delivery (PR=1.40; 95%CI=1.01-1.95), not having reported disrespect and abuse (PR=1.53; 95%CI=1.01-2.31), and having had the baby put to the breast within the first hour of life (PR=1.63; 95%CI=1.26-2.11). No association was observed with type of delivery or hospital status (public or private).

CONCLUSIONS

A higher level of satisfaction with the childbirth experience is related to satisfactory antenatal care, a non-abusive, respectful, and informative environment during childbirth, and to the opportunity to breastfeed the baby within the first hour of life. In clinical practice, greater attention to these basic principles of care during pregnancy and delivery could provide more positive experiences during birth.

Institutional violence in high-risk pregnancy in the light of pregnant women and nurses

OBJECTIVE

to understand the perception of high-risk nurses and pregnant women about institutional violence in access to basic and specialized care networks in pregnancy.

METHOD

a qualitative study developed from March to June 2017 in the city of Fortaleza, state of Ceará, with nurses and pregnant women at high risk. A semi-structured interview was used, analyzed by the thematic analysis technique. Three categories emerged: access of pregnant women to care networks; institutional violence in the perception of nurses; and institutional violence in the perception of pregnant women.

RESULTS

participants revealed deficiencies in knowledge about institutional violence. Nurses perceived this violence in the lack of resources and access, few recognized as a violation of rights. The pregnant women reported deficient access to care networks, medicines, tests, and did not perceive this difficulty as violence.

FINAL CONSIDERATIONS

institutional violence is present in high-risk pregnancy, nurses and pregnant women do not always perceive this violence as a violation of rights.

Profile and spatial distribution on maternal mortality

Abstract Objectives: to describe profile and spatial distribution on maternal mortality in a city in the North of Minas Gerais-Brazil. Methods: a descriptive, cross-sectional, documentary and quantitative study was carried out in 31 (100%) Fichas de Investigação de Óbito Materno do Comitê de Mortalidade Materna (Maternal Mortality Investigation Data Forms from the Maternal Mortality Committee) from 2009 to 2013. Results: prevalence is observed in women between 20 and 34 years old, mixed race, single and with low schooling. Of the deaths classified, 48.2% are direct obstetric death and 74.2% would be likely avoidable. The most prevalent causes of death were pregnancy-specific hypertensive disease; circulatory system disease; neoplasms; coagulopathies and post-abortion infection. In relation to prenatal care, only 20 women performed it, and most performed less than six prenatal consultations and in relation to the end of gestation, 68.1% underwent cesarean childbirth. Regarding to the descriptive spatial analysis, we identified a higher occurrence of maternal deaths in the areas of medium and high social vulnerability. Conclusions: maternal mortality is a strong indicator of women's healthcare, there is a necessity to readjust women’s healthcare in the puerperal pregnancy cycle. New healthcare practices for women are needed, due to the referred bond and responsible care.

Factors associated with women's satisfaction with prenatal care in Porto Alegre, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil

This article aims to identify factors associated with full satisfaction with prenatal care in health services in Porto Alegre (RS), Brazil. This is a cross-sectional study with 287 women that attended prenatal care in the state capital. Women were randomly selected at two large maternity hospitals (public and private) and interviewed at their homes around 30 days after delivery, from January to August 2016. Satisfaction was measured by a Likert scale (very satisfied to very unsatisfied). Prevalence ratios (PR) were estimated by Poisson regression with robust variance, using a hierarchical model. Factors associated with greater satisfaction were higher education (PR=1.49; 95% CI: 1.08-2.06); multiprofessional care (PR=1.29; 95% CI: 1.00-1.66); receiving information about breastfeeding (PR=1.33; 95% CI: 1.05-1.68) and place of delivery (PR=1.56; 95% CI: 1.12-2.17); and women feeling comfortable asking questions and participating in decisions (PR=5.17; 95% CI: 1.79-14.96). The findings suggest that prenatal care services that offer multiprofessional care, provide guidance, and make pregnant women feel comfortable asking and deciding about their care may generate greater satisfaction.

Social and geographical inequalities in the performance of prenatal care in a metropolitan area of Brazil

This study analyzed the social and geographical inequalities in the performance of prenatal medical care in the Unified Health System (SUS) in the Metropolitan Region of Grande Vitória, Espírito Santo, Brazil. A cross-sectional study was carried out with 1,209 puerperae living in this region, admitted for childbirth from 2010 to 2011. Data about prenatal care and contextual, enabling, and social characteristics were collected, following the Andersen's Behavioral Model. The performance of prenatal care was classified into five levels, including information on the number of prenatal visits, initial and repetitive examinations, tetanus vaccination, gestational risk management, and participation in educational activities. The likelihood of different levels of prenatal care performance was analyzed using a multivariate multinomial model, according to maternal social variables. High prenatal coverage (98%) and 4.4% care adequacy were identified. The likelihood of access to prenatal care was increased by enabling, contextual, and social factors. The relationship between prenatal care quality and pregnant women's social and geographical conditions must be considered in the organization of services to achieve equity and reduce maternal and perinatal morbimortality.

Avaliação da qualidade do pré-natal a partir das recomendações do Programa de Humanização no Pré-natal e Nascimento

Resumo O Programa de Humanização no Pré-natal e Nascimento (PHPN) estabelece um pacote mínimo de procedimentos a serem oferecidos a todas as gestantes durante o pré-natal. O objetivo deste estudo foi analisar a qualidade do pré-natal no estado de Sergipe a partir das recomendações do PHPN. Trata-se de um estudo transversal, com abordagens descritiva e analítica, vinculado à pesquisa Nascer em Sergipe, realizada entre junho/2015 e abril/2016. Foram avaliadas 768 puérperas proporcionalmente distribuídas entre todas as maternidades do estado (n = 11). A coleta dos dados ocorreu por meio de entrevista face a face e visualização do cartão de pré-natal. Os resultados mostraram uma cobertura elevada da assistência pré-natal (99,3%; n = 763), porém pouco mais da metade destas mulheres iniciaram seu acompanhamento antes da 16ª semana gestacional (57%; n = 435) e 74,4% (n = 570) compareceram a seis ou mais consultas. Constatou-se que 16,6% (n = 127) das gestantes foram consideradas de alto risco e quase metade delas continuou o acompanhamento com profissionais enfermeiros. A orientação sobre a maternidade de referência para o parto foi referida por 61,3% e 29,4% procuraram mais de um serviço para a parturição. Concluiu-se que houve uma alta cobertura do pré-natal em Sergipe, porém com problemas relacionados à sua adequação ao PHPN.

Spatial distribution of prenatal indicators in the State of Tocantins 2001 to 2015

Abstract Objectives: temporal-spatial analysis of prenatal indicators in the municipalities of the state of Tocantins based on the use of five-year intervals from 2001 to 2015. Methods: the indicators subject to analysis were: average prenatal care (APCPW), proportion of prenatal care in the first trimester (PPCFT) and proportion of pregnant women with vaccine on time (PWVT). Data from the DATASUS platform were used for spatialization of indicators through Thematic Maps, using the QGIS software. Results: indicators of proportion of prenatal care in the first trimester and proportion of pregnant women with vaccine on time showed gradual improvement in their indicators after 15 years of analysis, with values above 75% and 90%, respectively, showing compatibility with the current national scenario. However, APCPW has revealed that no municipality had more than 3 prenatal care visits within 15 years. Conclusions: among the indicators analyzed, the average of prenatal care, although it showed improvement in the 15-year interval, is the one with the greatest deficiency in the state and should therefore have a greater focus on primary care. Thus, it emphasizes the need to encourage the development of organized health systems and the use of specific policy actions to improve not only this indicator, but also the others, to improve prenatal quality.

Maternal characteristics and type of prenatal care associated with peregrination before childbirth

OBJECTIVE

To analyze the maternal characteristics and type of prenatal care associated with peregrination before childbirth among pregnant women in a northeastern Brazilian state.

METHODS

Quantitative and transversal study, with descriptive and analytical approaches, part of the Nascer em Sergipe research held between June 2015 and April 2016. A total of 768 puerperal women proportionally distributed across all maternities of the state (n = 11) were evaluated. Data were collected in interviews and from prenatal records. The associations between antepartum peregrination and the exposure variables were described in absolute and relative frequencies, crude and adjusted odds ratios and their respective confidence intervals.

RESULTS

Antepartum peregrination was reported by 29.4% (n = 226) of the interviewees, most of whom sought care in a single service before the current one (87.6%; n = 198). It should be noted that antepartum peregrination was less frequent among women aged ≥ 20 years old (OR = 0.50; 95%CI 0.34–0.71), with high education level (OR = 0.42; 95%CI 0.31–0.59) and a paid job (adjusted OR = 0.59; 95%CI 0.41–0.82), who had been instructed during prenatal care about the referral maternity for childbirth (adjusted OR = 0.88; 95%CI 0.42–0.92), and who used the private service to receive prenatal (adjusted OR = 0.44; 95%CI 0.18–0.86) or childbirth (adjusted OR = 0.96; 95%CI 0.66–0.98) care. No statistical evidence of associations between gestational characteristics and the occurrence of peregrination was observed.

CONCLUSIONS

Antepartum peregrination suffers interference from the mother’s socioeconomic characteristics, the type of prenatal care received and the source of funding for childbirth.

Life-threatening conditions at birth: an analysis of causes of death and survival estimate for under-five children in live birth cohorts

Despite the reduction in under-five mortality, the causes are still mostly avoidable, and survival may be compromised by life-threatening conditions at birth. The study estimated the burden of life-threatening conditions at birth, neonatal near miss, and mortality, with an emphasis on avoidable causes, as well as under-five survival in live birth cohorts. This was a retrospective cohort study of live birth in the city of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil (2012-2016). The databases from the Brazilian Information System on Live Births and the Brazilian Mortality Information System were linked. Pragmatic criteria were used to define life-threatening conditions and near miss. Deaths were classified according to the Brazilian list of causes of avoidable deaths. Morbidity and mortality and survival indicators were estimated (Kaplan-Meier). Of the 425,505 live birth , 2.2% presented life-threatening conditions at birth. The under-five, infant and neonatal mortality rates were 0.01, 0.06, and 14.97 per 1,000 person-days, respectively. Avoidable, unclearly avoidable, and ill-defined causes accounted respectively for 61%, 35%, and 4% of the deaths. The risk of death from avoidable causes attributable to life-threatening conditions at birth was 97.6%. Survival was lower in newborns with life-threatening conditions compared to those without life-threatening conditions. The pragmatic criteria for life-threatening conditions determined the profile of proportional mortality by causes of death according to the three groups of causes in the Brazilian list of causes of avoidable deaths. Life-threatening conditions at birth increases the risk of morbidity and mortality in under-five children and raises the discussion on vulnerability and the need for care for these children and social support for their families.

Process and outcome of prenatal care according to the primary care models: a cohort study

OBJECTIVE

to evaluate the process and outcome indicators of the prenatal care developed in primary care, comparing traditional care models and the Family Health Strategy.

METHOD

this is a cohort study, conducted with an intentional sample of 273 mothers/babies from the neonatal period and followed up for one year. Donabedian evaluation was adopted and data were discussed based on the Social Determination of Health. The independent variable was the care model. The dependent variables in the process evaluation were related to the quality of prenatal care and to the quality score created and the evaluation of the outcome, to the conditions of birth and the first year of life. The evaluation of the process was performed by estimating the relative risk and the evaluation of the outcome was performed by the Cox Multiple Regression Model.

RESULTS

lower income and risk of the low prenatal quality score were identified in the Family Health Units, where there were more puerperium consultation and health education actions. There was no difference in outcome indicators.

CONCLUSION

possibly the best quality of prenatal care was able to minimize negative socioeconomic effects found in family health, so the outcome indicators were similar in both models of the primary care.

Acquisition and completion of pregnant woman's medical booklet in four populational-based surveys

Abstract Objectives: to measure the prevalence of acquiring and evaluating the level of completion of the pregnant women's medical booklet on the occasion of childbirth in Rio Grande, Brazil. Methods: this is a cross-sectional study including all puerperals residing in this municipality in 2007, 2010, 2013 and 2016. The mothers were interviewed at the only two local maternities up to 48 hours after childbirth. The data from the pregnant woman’s medical booklet were copied on a standard form. The chi-square test was used to compare proportions. Results: 10,242 pregnant women were included in this study. Of these, 54.8% (CI95%=53.8%-55.7%) had their pregnant woman's medical booklet with them at the time of admission. The completion pattern of the pregnant woman's medical booklet is divided into three groups, namely: with at least 95%: date of the last consultation visit, maternal height and blood pressure verification, uterine height, cardio-fetal heart rate and the Rh factor; 85% or more: date of the last menstruation, qualitative urine test, VDRL and HIV; and less than 30%: performance of clinical breast examination and cytopathology of the uterine cervix. In the private sector, the acquisition of the pregnant woman's medical booklet was 41% lower than at the public sector (62% vs. 44%). Conclusions: the use of the pregnant woman's medical booklet and its completion were lower than expected on several items. Local managers need to work together with the health professionals and these health professionals should work with the mothers to promote the full use of this essential document for the maternal and child's health.

Inequalities in access to HIV and syphilis tests in prenatal care in Brazil

This study aims to evaluate the social determinants of access to HIV and VDRL tests during pregnancy in Brazil. The dependent variables were based on prenatal care access: prenatal care appointments, no HIV and syphilis tests. The independent variables at the first level were formal education level, age, race, work and participation in the Family Income program conditional cash transfer program. The city-level variables were the human development index (HDI), Gini index, and indicators related to health services. An exploratory analysis was performed assessing the effect of each level through prevalence ratios (PR) calculation. A multilevel mixed-effect Poisson regression model was constructed for all outcomes to verify the effect of individual level and with both the individual and contextual levels. Regarding prenatal appointments, the main implicated factors were related to individual socioeconomic position (education level and participation in the Family Income Program conditional cash transfer program), however only HDI maintained significance for the city-level context. The city-level variance dropped from 0.049 to 0.042, indicating an important between-city effect. Regarding the outcomes performing tests in prenatal care, the worst conditions such as contextual (HDI > 0.694, p < 0.001; Gini index ≥ 0.521, p < 0.001) and individual (> 8 years of schooling, p < 0.001) showed a risk effect in the final model. Variables related to health services did not show significant effects. They were associated with individual socioeconomic position and a city-level contextual effect. These findings indicate the importance of strengthening HIV and syphilis infection control programs during pregnancy.

Prenatal evaluation in primary care in Northeast Brazil: factors associated with its adequacy

OBJECTIVE

To characterize prenatal care and verify possible factors associated with its adequacy.

METHODS

This is a cross-sectional study based on interviews with health care professionals and consultations on official documents of women attending prenatal of the primary health care in the city of João Pessoa, capital of Paraíba, in the Northeast region of Brazil. Prenatal care was evaluated by an index with criteria referring to aspects of structure, process and outcome, denominated IPR/Prenatal. The multivariate logistic regression method revealed that demographic, socioeconomic, reproductive and maternal morbidity variables were possible determinants for prenatal adequacy.

RESULTS

The survey involved 130 services and 1,625 primary health care patients. Prenatal care was adequate in approximately 23% of the cases. Low prevalence of referral to maternity, educational strategies and examinations were observed. The analysis showed that non-adolescent women (OR = 1,390), with a longer period of schooling (OR = 1.750), higher per capita income (OR = 1,870) and primiparous women (OR = 1,230) were more likely to have an adequate prenatal.

CONCLUSIONS

Prenatal care, when evaluated by broader criteria, showed a low percentage of adequacy. Strategies should be developed to ensure the referral to the maternity where the birth will take place and health education activities and examinations to provide adequate prenatal care in the municipality under study. In addition, factors associated with adequacy must be considered by managers and health professionals.

Simultaneous circulation of arboviruses and other congenital infections in pregnant women in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

BACKGROUND

Arboviruses (Zika, dengue and chikungunya) represent a major risk for pregnant women, especially because their vertical transmission can lead to neurological damage in newborns. Early diagnosis can be difficult due to similar clinical presentation with other congenital infections that are associated with congenital abnormalities.

OBJECTIVES

To investigate the circulation of arboviruses and other pathogens responsible for congenital infections, reporting clinical aspects and geographic distribution of maternal rash in a metropolitan region of Rio de Janeiro (Brazil).

METHODS

Cross-sectional study with pregnant women presenting rash attended at the Exanthematic Diseases Unit (Niterói, Rio de Janeiro) from 2015 to 2018. Diagnosis of arboviruses was performed by real-time PCR (RT-qPCR) and laboratorial screening for syphilis, toxoplasmosis, rubella, cytomegalovirus and HIV was assessed. Demographic data was used for georeferencing analysis.

FINDINGS

We included 121 pregnant women, of whom Zika virus was detected in 45 cases (37.2%), chikungunya in 33 (27.3%) and dengue in one (0.8%). Five patients presented syphilis, and we observed one case each of listeria, cytomegalovirus, and a syphilis-toxoplasmosis case. Similarity of clinical symptoms was observed in all groups; however, 84.8% of patients with chikungunya presented arthralgia. Following the decline of Zika cases, chikungunya infection was mostly observed during 2017-2018. Considering pregnant women infected with arboviruses and other infections, 41% resided in urban slums, mostly in Niterói.

MAIN CONCLUSIONS

Simultaneous circulation of arboviruses and other agents responsible for congenital infections were observed; however, we did not identify co-infections between arboviruses. In this scenario, we emphasize the importance of adequate prenatal care to provide an accurate diagnosis of maternal rash.

Periconceptional folic acid supplementation in Southern Brazil: Why are not we doing it right?

Several countries, as Brazil, have public policies for periconceptional folic acid supplementation (FAS) in order to prevent unfavorable outcomes. Our aim was to evaluate the FAS situation in a public reference hospital from Southern Brazil. This study included all mothers who had children born at the Hospital Materno Infantil Presidente Vargas, RS, Brazil, in a 1-year period. Data collection was conducted through interviews with application of a clinical protocol and analysis of the patients' records. FAS was defined as the use of folic acid in any period of the periconceptional period, irrespective of the duration and amount. We also classified those mothers who correctly followed the national recommendation proposed by the Health Ministry of Brazil. The sample consisted of 765 mothers evaluated soon after childbirth. Their ages ranged from 12 to 45 years (mean 25.2 years). The overall level of FAS was 51.5%, and the use according to the national recommendation occurred in only 1.6%. Factors associated with non-FAS consisted of lower maternal age (p = .009) and maternal schooling (p = .023), higher number of pregnancies (p = .003), fewer prenatal visits (p = .050) and later prenatal care onset (p = .037). Periconceptional FAS in our midst seems to be very far from the ideal goal. Susceptible groups appeared to be mothers who were younger, less educated, multiparous, and had inadequate prenatal care. We believe that efforts of education and awareness should be especially targeted for these groups. These recommendations should also be strengthened among those who prescribe the FAS.

Prenatal care assessment according to the Prenatal and Birth Humanization Program

Abstract Objectives: to analyze prenatal care process in primary health care units and compare the prenatal adequacy in the third trimester with maternal and perinatal outcomes. Methods: a cross-sectional study of 2,404 pregnant women assisted in 2011in twelve primary health care units in the South region of São Paulo city. The data was collected through medical records. The assessment was based on the indicators process of the Programa de Humanização do Pré-natal e Nascimento (PHPN) (Prenatal and Birth Humanization Program). The prenatal adequacy in the third trimester was analyzed according to three criteria (early-onset, minimum of six consultations and puerperal consultation); and the compared maternal and perinatal outcomes were: type of childbirth, gestational age, birth weight and breastfeeding. The analysis was descriptive for the PHPN indicators and comparative for the prenatal adequacy by the chi-square test. Results: early prenatal (82.9%), minimum of six consultations (73.0%) and puerperal consultation (77.9%). In the overall of the PHPN indicators, there was an expressive decrease in the medical records (10.2%). Prenatal care was adequate for 63.6% with a significant difference in relation to gestational age (p=0.037) and birth weight (p=0.001). Conclusions: There were deficiencies in prenatal care. The difference between the groups in the perinatal outcomes reinforcing the need for prenatal care according to national indicators.

Fatores assistenciais e gestacionais associados à anemia em nutrizes atendidas em um banco de leite humano

Resumo A anemia é um problema de saúde pública que acomete cerca de 30% das gestantes brasileiras, podendo acarretar efeitos deletérios à saúde e qualidade de vida do binômio mãe-filho. O objetivo deste artigo é avaliar os fatores assistenciais e gestacionais associados à anemia entre nutrizes atendidas em um banco de leite humano (BLH) de referência. Estudo transversal com dados secundários referentes a informações sociodemográficas e gestacionais de 12283 nutrizes no período de 2009 a 2012. Aplicaram-se os testes Kolmogorov-Smirnov e Qui-quadrado ou exato de Fisher. Estimaram-se as Razões de Prevalência (RP) e respectivos Intervalos de Confiança-IC95%, por meio da Regressão de Poisson com variância robusta. Identificou-se a prevalência de anemia em 29,2% da amostra, sendo maior entre as mães que não realizaram o pré-natal (RP = 3,84; IC95% 3,26-4,54); as que realizaram até 3 consultas pré-natais (RP = 1,92; IC95% 1,21-3,06) e aquelas que tiveram gestação múltipla (RP = 2,29; IC95% 1,25-4,19). Os resultados apontaram maior prevalência de anemia entre as mulheres que não realizaram o pré-natal apropriado e as que tiveram gestações múltiplas, destacando-se a importância da assistência à saúde como fator de prevenção à anemia e demais intercorrências gestacionais.

Neonatal near miss determinants at a maternity hospital for high-risk pregnancy in Northeastern Brazil: a prospective study

BACKGROUND

To investigate the associations of maternal variables - sociodemographic, obstetrical and maternal near miss (MNM) variables - with neonatal near miss (NNM) using the new concept of NNM formulated by the Centro Latino-Americano de Perinatologia (CLAP) and the corresponding health indicators for NNM.

METHODS

An analytical prospective cohort study was performed at maternity hospital for high-risk pregnancy in Northeastern Brazil. Puerperal women whose newborn infants met the selection criteria were subjected to interviews involving pretested questionnaires. Statistical analysis was performed with the Epi Info 3.5.1 program using the Chi square test and Fisher's exact test when appropriate, with a level of significance of 5%. A bivariate analysis was performed to evaluate differences between the groups. All the variables evaluated in the bivariate analysis were subsequently included in the multivariate analysis. For stepwise logistic regression analysis, a hierarchical model was plotted to assess variable responses and adverse outcomes associated with MNM and NNM variables.

RESULTS

There were 1002 live births (LB) from June 2015 through May 2016, corresponding to 723 newborn infants (72.2%) without any neonatal adverse outcomes, 221 (22%) NNM cases, 44 (4.4%) early neonatal deaths and 14 (1.4%) late neonatal deaths. The incidence of NNM was 220/1000 LB. Following multivariate analysis, the factors that remained significantly associated with increased risk of NNM were fewer than 6 prenatal care visits (odds ratio (OR): 3.57; 95% confidence interval (CI): 2.57-4.94) and fetal malformations (OR: 8.78; 95% CI: 3.69-20.90). Maternal age older than 35 years (OR: 0.43; 95% CI: 0.23-0.83) and previous cesarean section (OR: 0.45; 95% CI: 0.29-0.68) protected against NNM.

CONCLUSION

Based on the large differences between the NNM and neonatal mortality rates found in the present study and the fact that NNM seems to be a preventable precursor of neonatal death, we suggest that all cases of NNM should be audited. Inadequate prenatal care and fetal malformations increased the risk of NNM, while older maternal age and a history of a previous cesarean section were protective factors.

Avaliação da qualidade da Atenção Pré-Natal no Brasil

RESUMO O objetivo do estudo foi investigar características da estrutura das unidades de saúde e dos processos gerenciais e assistenciais da Atenção Pré-Natal (APN) no âmbito da Atenção Primária à Saúde (APS) no Brasil, em municípios que aderiram ao Programa Nacional de Melhoria do Acesso e da Qualidade da Atenção Básica (PMAQ-AB). Trata-se de avaliação normativa com dados de 16.566 equipes de saúde da família que aderiram ao PMAQ-AB. Foi elaborado um modelo lógico dos componentes da APN, composto pelas dimensões de análise, gerencial e assistencial, e de 42 critérios de estrutura e processo e seus respectivos padrões. A estrutura das unidades básicas e as ações prestadas pelas equipes não obedeciam à maioria dos padrões, destacando-se a existência de barreiras estruturais, indisponibilidade de medicamentos e exames essenciais, problemas na oferta do elenco de ações assistenciais, envolvendo a atenção individual e o cuidado clínico, bem como de promoção da saúde e ações coletivas e domiciliares ofertadas. Conclui-se que, apesar da alta cobertura da APN e da sua institucionalização nos serviços de APS, persistem problemas que devem ser alvo de iniciativas governamentais que garantam atenção integral e de qualidade no ciclo gravídico-puerperal e que repercutam na melhoria dos indicadores de saúde materno-infantil.

Analysis of cases of gestational and congenital syphilis between 2008 and 2010 in Fortaleza, State of Ceará, Brazil

This study analyzes the reported cases of syphilis in pregnant women and the possible outcomes for fetuses and the newborn in Fortaleza, Ceará. It is a cross-sectional study that analyzed 175 reported cases of syphilis in pregnant women matched with the corresponding reports of congenital syphilis during the years 2008-2010. Descriptive statistics with absolute and relative frequencies, central tendency and dispersion measures, and the Pearson's chi-square test were used to analyze the statistical significance using the p-value <0.05. Sociodemographic variables of pregnant/postpartum women, the assistance provided to newborns and the outcome of cases were analyzed. The results showed the occurrence of syphilis in young women with more than 85% of inappropriate treatment, 62.9% of untreated sexual partners or lack of statistics and high percentages of non-realization of the recommended tests for congenital syphilis investigation in children. Among the fetuses, five were stillborn, one miscarried and there were three neonatal deaths. The lack of adequate treatment of pregnant women may be associated with morbidity and mortality of fetuses, maintaining this infection as a burden on the list of public health problems.

Active health Ombudsman service: evaluation of the quality of delivery and birth care

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the active health Ombudsman service as an instrument to evaluate the quality of delivery and birth care in the Cegonha Network of the Federal District of Brazil.

METHODS

This is a cross-sectional study of the telephone survey type carried out with 1,007 mothers with deliveries between October 15, 2013 and November 19, 2013 in the twelve public maternity hospitals that make up the Cegonha Network of the Federal District of Brazil. The instrument has 25 multiple choice or Likert scale questions, including sociodemographic data and acceptability evaluation in five domains: accessibility, relationship between the patient and health professionals, conditions of the structure of the service, information to the patient, and equity and opinion of the patient. We have studied qualitative or categorical variables according to the frequency and distribution of proportions. We have used the score transformed into a scale from zero to 100 for the analysis of the Likert-type scale questions. Results have been expressed as mean and standard deviation.

RESULTS

Access to prenatal appointments was evaluated as good or excellent by 86.1% of the participants and laboratory tests was evaluated as good or excellent by 85.2% of them. The access to imaging tests was evaluations as good or excellent by 45.7% of the women; 79.5% of the interviewees had their delivery in the maternity hospital where they sought initial care and 18.3% received a home visit by a community health agent after discharge. Most women reported that newborns were placed skin-to-skin immediately after birth, 48.9% had a companion at the time of the delivery, 76.3% were advised about the first appointment of the newborn, and 94.8% were advised on breastfeeding in the maternity hospital. Regarding the evaluation of health professionals, 85.9% of the women considered reception and cordiality as good or excellent at the prenatal care and 94.8% considered it as good or excellent at the maternity hospital.

CONCLUSIONS

The active health Ombudsman service has contributed to evaluate the quality of public management by allowing the incorporation of the perspective of users of the health service in the evaluation of the acceptability of the Cegonha Network in the Federal District of Brazil.

Avaliação do processo na assistência pré-natal de gestantes com risco habitual

Resumo Objetivo Avaliar a qualidade do cuidado quanto ao processo no pré-natal de gestantes com risco habitual. Métodos Pesquisa avaliativa, realizada no período de maio de 2015 a janeiro de 2016, na Casa de Parto Natural (CPN) Lígia Barros Costa em Fortaleza, Ceará. A amostra totalizou 560 prontuários de gestantes que realizaram pré-natal na CPN. O instrumento de coleta dos dados contemplou aspectos sociodemográficos, clínicos e obstétricos, e indicadores de processo da assistência pré-natal. Os critérios adotados para avaliar o processo foram os indicadores de qualidade do pré-natal. Os dados foram armazenados e processados no programa estatístico Statistical Package for the Social Sciences versão 20.0. A análise utilizou a estatística descritiva. Resultados Quanto aos indicadores de qualidade do pré-natal, observou-se que 42,3% (n=237) atenderam ao número adequado de consultas, realizando sete ou mais consultas. Apenas 26,3% (n=147) iniciaram precocemente o pré-natal. Referente aos indicadores de qualidade dos procedimentos clínicos e obstétricos verificou-se que 55% (n=309) estava adequado. Quando analisados os indicadores de qualidade referentes aos exames laboratoriais, apenas 25,4% (n=142) estavam adequados. Conclusão Conclui-se que a qualidade do pré-natal é adequada na minoria da população estudada, devendo existir maior atenção de gestores e profissionais para o planejamento de ações em prol da melhoria dos indicadores relacionados aos números de consultas, início precoce do pré-natal, procedimentos clínicos e obstétricos e realização dos exames laboratoriais.

Factors associated with preventable infant death: a multiple logistic regression

OBJECTIVE

To identify and analyze factors associated with preventable child deaths.

METHODS

This analytical cross-sectional study had preventable child mortality as dependent variable. From a population of 34,284 live births, we have selected a systematic sample of 4,402 children who did not die compared to 272 children who died from preventable causes during the period studied. The independent variables were analyzed in four hierarchical blocks: sociodemographic factors, the characteristics of the mother, prenatal and delivery care, and health conditions of the patient and neonatal care. We performed a descriptive statistical analysis and estimated multiple hierarchical logistic regression models.

RESULTS

Approximatelly 35.3% of the deaths could have been prevented with the early diagnosis and treatment of diseases during pregnancy and 26.8% of them could have been prevented with better care conditions for pregnant women.

CONCLUSIONS

The following characteristics of the mother are determinant for the higher mortality of children before the first year of life: living in neighborhoods with an average family income lower than four minimum wages, being aged ≤ 19 years, having one or more alive children, having a child with low APGAR level at the fifth minute of life, and having a child with low birth weight.

Prenatal care: preparation for childbirth in primary healthcare in the south of Brazil

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the relationship between prenatal care and delivery guidelines In Primary Health Care.

METHODS

This is a cross-sectional study, with 358 puerperal women of a public maternity from the south of Brazil. The data collection was performed from July to October of 2013, with prenatal card data transcription and a structured interview. The data has been analyzed through the use of the Chi-square test (p≤0.05).

RESULTS

The prenatal care had a high coverage (85,5%) and early start by 71,8% of the women, however, 52% of them did not receive orientation for the childbirth. There was a statistical association between receiving orientation for the childbirth and fewer visits (p=0.028), longer interval between the last prenatal visit and the childbirth (p=0.002), and the classification of the prenatal care as intermediate and inadequate (p=0.024).

CONCLUSIONS

Despite of the ideal number of visits, the quality of care has been classified as intermediate or inadequate, besides that, precarious access to the orientation for the childbirth during the prenatal care has been evidenced.

[Prenatal care and risk factors associated with premature birth and low birth weight in the a capital in the Brazilian Northeast]

The main determinants of the risk of mortality in the neonatal period are low birth weight and premature birth. The study sought to analyze the adequacy of prenatal care and risk factors associated with premature birth and low birth weight in a northeastern Brazilian capital. This is a case-control study. A model for adequacy of prenatal conditions composed of four indicators was created. Descriptive statistics for univariate analysis were used; as well as Wald linear trend tests, Student's t and chi-square test for bivariate analysis and multiple logistic regression for multivariate analysis with p <0.05. Multivariate analysis showed that poor education, not performing gainful activity, caesarean section, oligohydramnios, placental abruption and pre-eclampsia are independent factors associated with premature birth and/or low birth weight. For adequacy of prenatal care, variable indicator III remained significant, showing that mothers who had inadequate prenatal care had an increased chance for the occurrence of the outcome, highlighting the need for adequate public health policies of care for pregnant women in the municipality under scrutiny.

História gestacional e características da assistência pré-natal de puérperas adolescentes e adultas em uma maternidade do interior de Minas Gerais, Brasil

Resumo O objetivo desta pesquisa foi analisar a história gestacional e as características da assistência pré-natal de puérperas adolescentes e adultas em uma maternidade localizada em uma cidade de Minas Gerais, referência para a macrorregião de saúde do Jequitinhonha. Trata-se de um estudo transversal descritivo. Entrevistou-se 327 puérperas, entre maio de 2013 a março de 2014, utilizando um instrumento semiestruturado. Predominou o número de puérperas adultas com uma amostra de 255. Com relação ao pré-natal, 324 puérperas realizaram as consultas. Quanto ao local de realização do pré-natal, 79,2% das adolescentes, realizaram no serviço público de saúde, enquanto entre as adultas essa porcentagem foi de 60,4%. Quanto ao tipo de parto, 54,7% das puérperas o tiveram normal e 45% cesárea. Entre as adolescentes, houve uma maior porcentagem de parto normal comparado às adultas, e esse dado teve relação estatisticamente significativa com a idade da puérpera. Com relação à idade gestacional no momento do parto, 85,9% tiveram seus partos a termo; 13,5% pré-termo e 0,6% pós-termo. Evidenciou-se que as puérperas adolescentes estiveram em desvantagem em relação às demais mães no que diz respeito tanto às características socioeconômicas quanto na assistência recebida no pré-natal.

Diálogo com equipes de Saúde da Família sobre parto no pré-natal: uma investigação comunicativa

El diálogo entre gestantes y profesionales de la salud acerca del parto puede ser una importante herramienta para cambios en la práctica de cesarianas en Brasil. Sin embargo, la priorización del tema en el prenatal y la forma como este es abordado están directamente relacionadas a su valoración y a dificultades de enfoque. Objetivos: analizar, junto con equipos de salud de la familia, los elementos que dificultan el abordaje del parto en prenatal. Materiales y método: investigación cualitativa, que utilizó la metodología comunicativa para identificar elementos facilitadores y dificultadores para el ejercicio de una práctica o beneficio. Se realizaron grupos de discusión comunicativos con los equipos, entre el 2013 y el 2014. Resultados: los elementos dificultadores permean la formación profesional, el proceso y las condiciones de trabajo en las unidades, e interfieren en las actividades educacionales, en la falta de articulación entre la atención básica y la hospitalaria, y en las propias vivencias personales de los profesionales con el tema, aspectos que influencian negativamente el abordaje del parto. Conclusiones: se necesita inversión en la capacitación de los profesionales en cuestiones referentes al tema, con espacios de diálogo que permitan explorar las posibilidades de superación de dificultades institucionales y expresar sus propias vivencias, con el fin de deshacer mitos y creencias en relación con el parto.

Factors related to health services determine breastfeeding within one hour of birth in the Federal District of Brazil, 2011

Objective:

To identify factors associated with breastfeeding in the first hour of life.

Methods:

A cross-sectional study conducted among mothers and children under one year of age, who attended the second stage of the polio vaccination campaign in the Federal District, Brazil, in 2011. The sample was composed of 1,027 pairs of mothers and children. Breastfeeding in the first hour of life was considered as the dependent variable; and the independent variables were: socio-demographic characteristics of the mother, prenatal, delivery and postpartum care, reference to physical or verbal violence/neglect during delivery, and children health. Unadjusted and adjusted prevalence ratios (PR) were used as measures of association, calculated by Poisson regression.

Results:

The prevalence of breastfeeding in the first hour of life was 77.3%. Inadequate prenatal care (PR = 0.72), cesarean section (PR = 0.88) and no access to rooming-in after birth (PR = 0.28) were factors that interfered negatively in breastfeeding in the first hour of life. No factor was associated with breastfeeding in the first hour of life for mother and children.

Conclusions:

Factors related to health services such as prenatal care, type of delivery and postpartum rooming-in interfered with breastfeeding in the first hour of life, indicating that health services, as well health professional practices were major determinants the breastfeeding in the first hour of life.

Women's perception of prenatal and delivery care in cases of neonatal death

Abstract Objective: To analyze women's perception of care in prenatal and delivery care in cases of neonatal death. Method: A qualitative study was carried out with women whose children died in the neonatal period. Data were collected through open-ended interviews and analyzed according to the thematic analysis technique. Results: The professional-patient relationship in which there is dialogue is associated with good prenatal experience for women. Guidelines and information about health are seen as a positive aspect to achieve quality of care. The difficulty of access to exams and the lack of preparation of women for childbirth appear as negative aspects for care. Conclusions: Negative health care factors are reflected in a biographical way on these women. Implications for practice: Include results that can serve as a warning for professionals who provide care for pregnant and parturient women.

Diagnostic and Therapeutic Knowledge and Practices in the Management of Congenital Syphilis by Pediatricians in Public Maternity Hospitals in Brazil

The study aimed to assess conformity with Brazil's standard protocol for diagnostic and therapeutic practices in the management of congenital syphilis by pediatricians in public maternity hospitals. A cross-sectional study was conducted in 2015 with 41 pediatricians working in all the public maternity hospitals in Teresina, the capital of Piauí State, Northeast Brazil, through self-completed questionnaires. The study assessed the conformity of knowledge and practices according to the Brazilian Ministry of Health protocols. The study has made evident low access to training courses (54%) and insufficient knowledge of the case definition of congenital syphilis (42%) and rapid tests for syphilis (39%). Flaws were observed in the diagnostic workup and treatment of newborns. Requesting VDRL (88%) and correct treatment of neurosyphilis (88%) were the practices that showed the highest conformity with standard protocols. Low conformity with protocols leads to missed opportunities for identifying and adequately treating congenital syphilis. Based on the barriers identified in the study, better access to diagnostic and treatment protocols, improved recording on prenatal cards and hospital patient charts, availability of tests and medicines, and educational work with pregnant women should be urgently implemented, aiming to reverse the currently inadequate management of congenital syphilis and to curb its spread.

Nutritional care during prenatal and postpartum periods: A report of experiences in a city on São Paulo's coast

ABSTRACT The purpose of this study is to present a report of the experiences of the adoption of the Approach to Nutritional Care during Prenatal and Postpartum Periods, resulting from a partnership between the university and the municipal primary health care system of Santos, SP, Brazil. This approach was developed through joint work plans based on the need to incorporate nutritional care into the prenatal and postpartum care. All stages of design and implementation and the results of this strategy were documented in a field diary. This approach was adopted in two basic health units between 2010 and 2014. The stages of this process were planned in conjunction with health care teams and consisted of putting together interdisciplinary groups for nutrition education during the prenatal period. Interdisciplinary educational group meetings were held focusing on listening to the needs of pregnant women, the provision of prenatal nutritional care, and on the project to monitor the nutritional status of newborns through home visits up to the 15 days of postpartum. The interdisciplinary activities strengthened the bond between the users and the health care team members, contributing to the provision of effective care and promoting integrality. Home visiting contributed to encourage exclusive breastfeeding.

Factors associated with cesarean delivery during labor in primiparous women assisted in the Brazilian Public Health System: data from a National Survey

BACKGROUND

The rate of cesarean delivery (CD) in Brazil has increased over the past 40 years. The CD rate in public services is three times above the World Health Organization recommended values. Among strategies to reduce CD, the most important is reduction of primary cesarean. This study aimed to describe factors associated with CD during labor in primiparous women with a single cephalic pregnancy assisted in the Brazilian Public Health System (SUS).

METHODS

This study is part of the Birth in Brazil survey, a national hospital-based study of 23,894 postpartum women and their newborns. The rate of CD in primiparous women was estimated. Univariate and multivariable logistic regression was performed to analyze factors associated with CD during labor in primiparous women with a single cephalic pregnancy, including estimation of crude and adjusted odds ratios and their respective 95 % confidence intervals.

RESULTS

The analyzed data are related to the 2814 eligible primiparous women who had vaginal birth or CD during labor in SUS hospitals. In adjusted analyses, residing in the Southeast region was associated with lower CD during labor. Occurrence of clinical and obstetric conditions potentially related to obstetric emergencies before delivery, early admission with < 4 cm of dilatation, a decision late in pregnancy for CD, and the use of analgesia were associated with a greater risk for CD. Favorable advice for vaginal birth during antenatal care, induction of labor, and the use of any good practices during labor were protective factors for CD. The type of professional who attended birth was not significant in the final analyses, but bivariate analysis showed a higher use of good practices and a smaller proportion of epidural analgesia in women cared for by at least one nurse midwife.

CONCLUSIONS

The CD rate in primiparous women in SUS in Brazil is extremely high and can compromise the health of these women and their newborns. Information and support for vaginal birth during antenatal care, avoiding early admission, and promoting the use of good practices during labor assistance can reduce unnecessary CD. Considering the experience of other countries, incorporation of nurse midwives in childbirth care may increase the use of good practices during labor.

Childbirth care in Brazil: a critical situation has not yet been overcome. 1999-2013

Abstract Objectives: to analyze the evolution of childbirth care in Brazil, between 1999-2013. Methods: a time-series ecological study, using data from Ministry of Health, Brazilian Institute of Geography and Statistics, and Interagency Network of Information for Health. 18 indicators were analyzed related to childbirth and mortality. Results: there was a reduction in rates of fertility, natality and the total number of births, with increased cesarean surgeries. Growth of prenatal consultation, intensive care beds and reduction of beds in obstetrics sector. The significant growth of caesarean deliveries, prenatal consultation coverage and concentration of births in hospitals occurred simultaneously with the growth: of preventable child deaths by adequate attention, management causes and appropriate delivery, prematurity; low weight; Down's syndrome; and the persistence of maternal deaths due to direct obstetric causes. Conclusions: persists hegemonic technocratic model of childbirth care without considering the observed changes in the profile of mothers and births, with slow reduction of perinatal and neonatal deaths and maintenance of high maternal mortality demonstrating that the critical situation of delivery care model in Brazil has not, yet, been overcome.