Epidemiological and obstetric characteristics of maternal deaths due to COVID-19 in Pará

Abstract

This study analyzed the epidemiological and obstetric characteristics of maternal deaths due to COVID-19 in the state of Pará between 2020 and 2021, considering the impacts of the pandemic on maternal mortality. This is a cross-sectional, descriptive, and retrospective study based on the analysis of 78 reported cases, using secondary data from the Pará State Department of Public Health for statistical analysis. The results showed that most pregnant women received prenatal care, but did not reach the recommended number of consultations. Most deaths occurred in the postpartum period, with a prevalence of cesarean sections and a significant association with factors such as a high number of pregnancies and births, history of abortion, and lack of prenatal care. Logistic regression indicated that the lack of prenatal care significantly increased the risk of maternal death. The study reinforces the need to strengthen public maternal health policies, especially in vulnerable regions, aiming to expand access to and quality of prenatal care, improve epidemiological surveillance and ensure timely care for pregnant and postpartum women, especially in pandemic contexts. It is concluded that preventive measures and adequate management of respiratory infections such as covid-19 infection should be prioritized to reduce maternal mortality.