Evaluation of Antenatal Syphilis Screening and Treatment Practices at District Hospitals in Benue State

Congenital syphilis, though largely preventable through antenatal screening and treatment, continues to cause foetal loss and neonatal morbidity in Nigerian hospitals where screening quality is inconsistent. This study evaluates antenatal syphilis screening and treatment practices at district hospitals in Benue State, North Central Nigeria. Fifteen district hospitals in Makurdi, Gboko, and Otukpo LGAs were assessed through facility record review, laboratory capability assessment, and structured interviews with 30 antenatal care providers. Data on screening coverage, treatment uptake, partner notification practices, and documentation standards were collated. Universal syphilis screening was documented in only 53 percent of antenatal registers reviewed. Rapid plasma reagin testing was the sole screening method in all facilities, with confirmatory testing unavailable. Treatment with benzathine penicillin was provided to 78 percent of screen-positive women, but partner treatment documentation was completed in fewer than 20 percent of cases. Rescreening in the third trimester was performed in only 14 percent of positive women. The study identifies critical gaps in Benue State district hospital antenatal syphilis management, including inadequate partner treatment and rescreening. Professional recommendations include universal booking syphilis screening enforcement, partner notification training, procurement of confirmatory treponemal tests, and integration of congenital syphilis prevention into Benue State maternal health quality improvement plans. Keywords: syphilis screening, antenatal care, congenital syphilis, Benue State, district hospital