CONGENITAL SYPHILIS: BARRIERS IN PRENATAL CARE THAT PREVENT THE ERADICATION OF VERTICAL TRANSMISSION

Abstract

Congenital syphilis remains a public health challenge, representing a major indicator of failures in prenatal care. This study aimed to analyze the barriers in prenatal care that prevent the eradication of vertical transmission of Treponema pallidum. The theoretical framework is based on the primary care network and the comprehensive health care protocol for women and children. The methodology adopted was an narrative literature review, conducted by the Study Group on Prevention of Infections and Chronic Diseases (GEPINF), searching scientific databases between 2001 and 2026, focusing on articles that discuss the prenatal care work process and the quality of care. The findings indicate that the main barriers are the late enrollment of pregnant women in prenatal care and the fragmentation of care between primary care and maternity services. Furthermore, inadequate follow-up of the child, especially when there is any impairment, stands out, as well as the lack of rapid testing, incorrect interpretation of serological results, difficulty in timely treatment of the sexual partner, incorrect treatment, and resistance to the administration of benzathine penicillin in the primary care network. It is concluded that, for the eradication of vertical transmission, it is imperative to strengthen the active search for pregnant women, train health teams to demystify penicillin treatment, and ensure partner adherence to treatment. The strategy requires efficient management capable of integrating care flows and guaranteeing early diagnosis, overcoming the structural weaknesses that perpetuate the incidence of this preventable pathology.