THE IMPLICATIONS OF SYPHILIS DURING PREGNANCY: BARRIERS TO COMPREHENSIVE CARE AND IMPACTS ON MATERNAL AND CHILD HEALTH IN AMAZONAS

Abstract

Syphilis is a sexually transmitted infection caused by the bacterium *Treponema pallidum*. It represents a public health challenge, particularly during pregnancy, due to the risk of congenital syphilis. This issue is compounded by social and behavioral factors, as well as weaknesses in healthcare provision—especially within prenatal care, which is a critical component of maternal and child health. This study aims to evaluate the implications of syphilis during pregnancy in the state of Amazonas, considering the cultural, socioeconomic, and geographical factors that hinder access to care and impact maternal and child health. The research investigates the incidence and prevalence of the disease, analyzes its impact on regional public health, examines the relationship between prenatal care and cases of congenital syphilis, and identifies barriers to accessing and ensuring the quality of prenatal care. This is a descriptive-exploratory literature review with a qualitative approach, based on scientific articles, epidemiological bulletins, and official documents sourced from the SciELO, PubMed, and Google Scholar databases. Articles published between 2021 and 2026 in Portuguese, English, and Spanish were selected. The study demonstrates that gestational and congenital syphilis remains a public health issue in Amazonas, given the risks to maternal and child health and the challenges associated with treatment and prenatal follow-up. It highlights the need to strengthen prenatal care, as well as policies for the prevention and control of vertical transmission.