Brazilian primary care research highlights adolescent prenatal support and mental health challenges

A scoping review of Brazil's Family Health Strategy examined how primary‑care teams support adolescent pregnant women. The review of 15 studies found that nurses and community health workers provide early pregnancy identification, home visits, prenatal consultations, health education and relationship‑building, but identified obstacles such as low adherence by adolescents, inconsistent service organization and limited professional training.

A separate dissertation investigated the discursive practices of primary‑care professionals regarding mental health care. The study found that overmedication, high demand, limited service continuity and feelings of unpreparedness hinder comprehensive, humanized care. It proposes strategies to overcome these barriers, emphasizing integrated care, listening, community empowerment and professional support.

Both works underscore the need for improved training, resources and patient‑centered approaches within Brazil's primary health system.