OBJECTIVES: This study aims to provide an overview of perinatal and late neonatal mortality in Barranquilla, Colombia from 2019 to 2021.

METHODS: A descriptive study was conducted to assess the impact of the SARS-CoV-2 virus on late perinatal and neonatal mortality indicators, with a total of 1190 cases analyzed.

RESULTS: The highest reported cases occurred in 2019 at 35%, followed by 34% in 2020, and decreased to 31% in 2021. Most fetal deaths were observed in pregnancies of less than 22 weeks, among women aged 20 to 24 years, and among those who had experienced two or more pregnancies. A concerning trend of reduced prenatal check-ups was noted during the pandemic. In 2019, 44% attended 4 or more checks, while in 2020, 37% did not attend any checks. In 2021, 34% attended 4 or more checks. Additionally, it was found that many neonates had a birth weight between 500-999g, a significant risk factor for neonatal mortality, as these infants are more susceptible to sudden cardiac death, respiratory infections, and metabolic syndromes.

CONCLUSIONS: The study reveals that disadvantaged social and economic conditions are the primary risk factors during pregnancy, significantly impacting the health of both mother and fetus. Individuals facing these circumstances are twice as likely to experience perinatal and neonatal mortality, as well as complications and serious illnesses, compared to those in more privileged socioeconomic strata.