The Ministry of Public Health, with support from UNICEF and under the leadership of Vice President María José Pinto, announced on March 26 the launch of a new Comprehensive Health Booklet (LIS) for mothers and children. The initiative aims to improve monitoring of maternal health during pregnancy and postpartum, as well as the health of children across Ecuador.
The LIS is designed to help families make informed decisions about issues such as breastfeeding, parenting, and child development. Officials say that regular use of the booklet will encourage more mothers and families to attend prenatal checkups, postpartum visits, and healthy child assessments. This is expected to reduce risks associated with maternal morbidity and mortality while also improving care for mothers, newborns, and children.
According to event organizers, the launch took place in Riobamba with attendance from government officials including Ángela Tipán, Subsecretary General of the Vice Presidency; Lucy Baldeón, Deputy Minister for Health Governance; David Simón from UNICEF Ecuador; as well as around 400 parents and caregivers. The updated version now includes two separate booklets—one for mothers and one for children—and covers additional areas such as postpartum care, maternal mental health, and encourages active participation by both parents in daily childcare routines.
Vice President Pinto addressed attendees virtually: “Today we take a step that transforms lives and protects what is most valuable—our families. Today we choose to care for the wellbeing of mothers, boys and girls. Because investing in early childhood means sowing seeds for our future. And caring for maternal health builds a fairer country.”
Lucy Baldeón said that updating the LIS reaffirms their commitment “with life and comprehensive care” for women and children: “Today we recognize how far we’ve come—a decision made with each family’s reality in mind. Let’s keep working together because when we care for a mother or a child—we are caring for Ecuador.”
David Simón from UNICEF added: “Caring for early childhood is not just a family task—it’s a shared responsibility—a national decision.” Beneficiaries like Jennifer Urgiles Núñez called it her best ally during pregnancy: “This tool ensures I never miss an appointment,” she said.
