The three health delays leading to obstetric complications in pregnant women in ecuador. A review study

Abstract

Introduction: Pregnancy is a period of emotion and anxiety. The reality for pregnant women is that their actions could affect the pregnancy and the fetus, so it is necessary for them to know what they should and should not do to minimize risks and optimize results. Objective: To determine the three health delays that lead to obstetric complications in pregnant women in Ecuador. Methodology: This research was developed under a qualitative perspective, of a documentary nature, of a monographic type. Results: First delay, refers to the delay in seeking help. The second delay is related to the delay in reaching help once the complication is recognized. The main causes reported as the origin of this delay are: lack of transportation for transfer to the hospital, lack of financial resources to pay for it, fear of go to health services due to bad experiences. Third delay, when the woman arrives at the health service, the waiting time for care can be extended to more than an hour. Conclusion: In Ecuador, a model of the "three delays" was designed, specifying that the decision to seek help is the first step to take if a woman with a complication wants to receive emergency obstetric care. Once the decision to seek help has been made, the woman should arrive at the health unit where emergency obstetric care is provided.