Perinatal care during the COVID-19 pandemic in the state of Paraná.

OBJECTIVES

to assess the association between good obstetric practices in the perinatal period and newborn vitality measured by Apgar during the COVID-19 pandemic in Paraná.

METHODS

a cross-sectional study, excerpt from the research "Coping with COVID-19 and maternal and child care", with postpartum women treated in hospitals in five Regional Health Districts of Paraná during the COVID-19 pandemic (2021 and 2022). Statistical analysis used frequencies, means, and standard deviations. Association between Apgar and good obstetric practices was analyzed using chi-square and Fisher's exact tests.

RESULTS

a total of 1,503 women were included. The variables referral hospital, skin-to-skin contact, and presence of a companion had positive outcomes on Apgar scores.

CONCLUSIONS

despite the adversities of the pandemic, some good practices were maintained, and Apgar score was positive. However, the continued need for coordination between managers and professionals, and public policies to ensure perinatal care quality in the state is highlighted.