Malaria in pregnancy complications in Southern Venezuela

Abstract Background Pregnant women are particularly vulnerable to malaria infections, increasing the risk of maternal–fetal complications, mainly in high-endemicity areas. However, few studies pregnancy (MiP) have been carried out Latin America, a region with low endemicity and transmission both, Plasmodium falciparum vivax . Despite high burden Venezuela last years, no recent MiP conducted. Hence, epidemiological clinical characteristics pregnant southern described herein. Methods A retrospective study attending at “Ruíz y Páez” University Hospital Complex, Bolivar state, Venezuela, was between February October, 2019. Epidemiological, clinical, laboratory information analysed. Results Thirty-seven 52 analysed were infected P. Age ranged 15 39 adolescent pregnancies common. Malaria infection diagnosed during third trimester (63.4%). The distribution symptoms signs as well values similar among spp. Although uncomplicated most frequent, 30% (13/52) had severe anaemia. proportion studied (44%) presented least one complication or delivery. Spontaneous abortion recorded four women, three fetal deaths observed. Six preterm delivery without any further complication. Conclusions prevalence complications found population, highlighting requirement for careful medical follow up prenatal check-ups, which should include routinary tests. Preventive measures insecticide-treated mosquito net also be implemented. Those can help reduce negative impact on newborn mother.