Maternal mortality and COVID-19.

Area of Science:

• Obstetrics and Gynecology
• Infectious Diseases
• Public Health

Background:

• The COVID-19 pandemic has had a significant impact on maternal health globally.
• Understanding the specific burden of COVID-19-related maternal mortality in Brazil is crucial for targeted interventions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To provide a comprehensive overview of COVID-19-related maternal deaths in Brazil.
• To compare Brazilian maternal mortality data with international reports.

Main Methods:

• Systematic search of data from the Brazilian Ministry of Health, State Departments of Health, and media coverage.
• Data collection included timing of death (pregnancy/postpartum), gestational age, mode of birth, maternal age, comorbidities, and location of death.
• Analysis of 20 identified COVID-19-related maternal deaths.

Main Results:

• Twenty maternal deaths attributed to COVID-19 were identified, with ages ranging from 20 to 43 years.
• Most deaths (16/20) occurred postpartum, and 11 cases had at least one comorbidity, with asthma being the most frequent.
• Deaths were concentrated in the Northeast and Southeast regions, with São Paulo being a significant epicenter.

Conclusions:

• This represents the largest series of COVID-19 maternal deaths reported to date.
• Healthcare access barriers, varied pandemic control measures, and prevalent risk factors may contribute to Brazil's observed maternal mortality outcomes.
• Findings underscore the need for tailored strategies to mitigate COVID-19's impact on maternal health in Brazil.