Abstract:

Introduction: Herbal medicine is the oldest form of health care used by all cultures throughout the world. It is used by approximately 80% of the world’s population. Its use in primary health care has increased globally especially in developing countries where herbal medicine are less expensive and more accessible than conventional medicine. Herbal medicines are commonly used by pregnant women despite their little real evidence of safety and limited knowledge on potential side effects.

Aim: The aim of the study was to determine the prevalence, factors, perception and possible outcomes of herbal medicine use in pregnancy.

Methodology: The cross section study was done at Makongoro health centre in Nyamagana Mwanza. A sample of 246 parity one and above women, with less than one year old children were interviewed by using questionnaire. The raw data was entered in SPSS version 17 for analysis.

Results: The prevalence of traditional medicine use in pregnancy was 94(38.2%). Factors associated with the use of traditional medicine were advice or influence from relatives and friends to relieve pregnancy associated symptoms (47.8%). Most users believed that traditional medicine were safer and more effective than modern medicine (58.5%) and majority were satisfied. 73.6% of non-users believed that traditional medicine could cause complications to their unborn children. Neonatal death was the complication experienced by traditional medicine users.

Conclusion: More than one third of the participants had used traditional medicine during pregnancy and majority had no idea on complications which may be associated with traditional medicine. There is a need for provision of education on traditional medicine use in pregnancy and their possible toxicities.