# Latin American maternal care reform efforts > Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/latin-american-maternal-care-reform-efforts > Updated: 2026-10-13T16:21:00.000Z. Sources: 15. Developments: 2. Health professionals and international organizations are advocating for reforms in maternal care across Latin America to address high cesarean section rates and combat obstetric violence. In the Dominican Republic, medical leaders have called for a transformation of the childbirth model, noting that doctors often practice ‘defensive medicine’ due to hospital congestion and legal pressures. Cultural factors also contribute to high cesarean rates, as families may perceive them as safer options. Broadly, there is a regional movement to address non-consensual interventions and a lack of patient autonomy. Supported by the World Health Organization and UNICEF, new guidelines aim to implement respectful maternal and neonatal care. In Honduras, training programs supported by the Pan American Health Organization have been developed to foster dignity-based institutional practices. ## Timeline ### 2026-10-13: Latin American regions implement new safety and health initiatives Regional authorities across Latin America are launching new programs for police modernization, community safety, and expanded access to healthcare and social services. 12 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/san-juan-governor-inaugurates-modernized-14th-police-station-in-zonda ### 2026-09-21: Latin American health officials seek to reform maternal care and reduce obstetric violence Latin American health authorities and international organizations are working to reform maternal care, addressing high cesarean rates and obstetric violence through professional training and new clinical models 3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/latin-american-health-officials-seek-to-reform-maternal-care-and-reduce-obstetric-violence --- Cite as: Latin American maternal care reform efforts. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/latin-american-maternal-care-reform-efforts