Midwifery is emerging as a critical safeguard for women’s health in Chile as the public healthcare system struggles with mounting delays. Official data from the Ministry of Health indicates that as of late 2025, patients face a median wait of 226 days for specialist consultations and 251 days for surgical procedures.
These delays place significant strain on the national health infrastructure. In response, health advocates are pivoting toward primary care and reproductive health services to ensure patients receive consistent monitoring and timely intervention.
APROFA, a reproductive health organization with six decades of experience, urges patients to prioritize annual screenings. The group argues that proactive health management is the most effective way to avoid long-term complications.
“We promote that people perform at least one annual sexual and reproductive health check-up, as it constitutes a fundamental tool for self-care,” APROFA representatives stated. “Information and professional guidance allow people to make informed decisions and anticipate potential health problems.”
The strategic role of midwifery in prevention
Midwives provide more than clinical evaluations; they serve as educators and navigators within a complex system. By conducting regular check-ups, they identify risk factors early and manage necessary referrals to medical specialists, ensuring a comprehensive approach to patient wellness.
Preventive care protocols recommended by health professionals include a variety of screenings tailored to age and personal history. The Papanicolaou (PAP) test remains the primary tool for early cervical cancer detection, recommended for women starting at age 25. Similarly, human papillomavirus (HPV) screenings are generally suggested for those 30 and older.
For breast health, professionals emphasize both physical examinations and mammograms. While physical screenings help patients understand their own bodies, mammograms are typically recommended beginning at age 40 to identify lesions before they become palpable.
Beyond reproductive health, the scope of primary care includes broader diagnostic tools. Professionals utilize transvaginal ultrasounds to monitor for cysts or fibroids and conduct blood panels to screen for sexually transmitted infections and general health markers.
Prostate evaluations are also included in comprehensive health strategies for men, with screenings typically starting at age 40 depending on individual risk factors. Health experts emphasize that the frequency and specific necessity of these tests must be determined through a consultation with a qualified provider to ensure care is properly aligned with the patient's individual profile.
