Analysis of the ‘Rede Cegonha’ Activities in Brazil

Abstract

The ‘Rede Cegonha’ (RC) launched in 2011 by the Brazilian Health Ministry is a strategy of the Brazilian Health System to reduce maternal morbo-mortality in Brazil. Current study analyzes maternal and infant health activities implemented in Brazil after the publication of the 2011 Law 1459 establishing RC and identifies possible progress. Review of the on-line literature occurred between April and July 2015 at databases Medline, Lilacs, Scielo, Google Acadêmico, Periódicos Capes and in official documents published by the Health Department. Publications used were those in Portuguese between 2011 and 2015. Eight articles and ten MH documents were related to the theme. Review comprised activities implemented by the RC based on regionalization and integrality. The Fast Pregnancy Test, for early detection of pregnancy, was one of the activities implanted in all Basic Health Units. It was coupled to the Basic Attention team and based on the necessities of each patient. RC spread the Maternity Qualification Plan (MQP) throughout the country. Within the context of current obstetric care, the pregnant woman must be informed of her rights. RC revealed progress in integral protection within the pregnancy process, childbirth, birth, pueriperium and the start of life. Since it comprises health education policies, its effects will be observed in the long term.