Journal of Undergraduate Research
Keywords
cesarean birth, Ecuador, C-section, childbirth
College
Nursing
Abstract
Over 850,000 unnecessary C-sections are performed each year in Latin America (Belizán, Althabe, Barros, & Alexander, 1999). According to a recent annual report of the Sotomayor Maternity Hospital in Guayaquil, Ecuador, 58% of total births were cesarean (Junta de B., 2004). In comparison, the overall cesarean rate in the U.S. (which is also high according to medical recommendations) is reported to be about 27% (NCHS, 2003). Unnecessary cesarean sections have resulted in increased infection, hemorrhage, damage to abdominal and urinary tract organs, drug complications, prematurity, increased neonatal illness, and longer hospitalization (Sloan et al, 2000). These reported rates in Ecuador represent an unnecessary increased risk for mothers and their babies and an increased economic burden. A research study was conducted to investigate contributing factors for the high C-section rates in this region.
Recommended Citation
Kemp, Melissa and Palmer, Dr. Sheri
(2013)
"Explanations for an Increased Cesarean Birth Rate in Guayaquil, Ecuador,"
Journal of Undergraduate Research: Vol. 2013:
Iss.
1, Article 1622.
Available at:
https://scholarsarchive.byu.edu/jur/vol2013/iss1/1622