Medical experts address premature birth prevention and maternal mortality risks

Medical experts are highlighting the complexities of preventing premature births and reducing maternal mortality. Premature birth, defined as occurring before 37 weeks of gestation, lacks a single cause and can result from infections, cervical changes, multiple pregnancies, or placental issues. Prevention strategies include monitoring cervical length via transvaginal ultrasound and, in specific cases, using vaginal progesterone or surgical procedures like cerclage to reinforce the cervix.

In Mato Grosso do Sul, data from the State Health Secretariat reveals a critical gap in prenatal care quality. In 2025, more than half of the women who died from maternal causes in the state had attended seven or more prenatal consultations. Obstetrician Vanessa Chagas notes that while the number of visits is important, the primary challenge lies in the quality of these assessments. Risks are often not correctly classified, or there are significant delays in transferring high-risk patients to specialized tertiary care services.