Sierra Leonean, women use of herbal medicines during pregnancy

What is it about?

The influence of complementary therapies on maternal health has attracted the attention of policy makers, health professionals and researchers globally especially in developing countries. However, there is lack of evidence on whether Sierra Leonean women use herbal medicine during pregnancy which limit the chance of providing better maternity care. Aim This study was conducted to determine the prevalence and pattern of herbal medicines use among pregnant women attending an antenatal clinic at a tertiary maternal hospital in Sierra Leone. Nearly two-thirds of pregnant women reported using herbal medicine (62.7%). Herbal medicine users were more likely to be Muslim than Christian. Luffa acutangula (L.) Roxb was the most cited herbal medicine used and was mostly indicated for urinary tract infection and pedal oedema. Perceived effectiveness and safety over conventional medicine (70.2%) was key driver for use, and majority did not disclose their use of herbs to their maternal health professional (95.2%).

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Why is it important?

Problem or issue Herbal medicine use during pregnancy is a public health issue due to its potential effect on maternal and new born health. What is already known Traditional healthcare utilization among adult and paediatric populations remain prevalent in Sierra Leone where it is often the first option considered. There is little or no information regarding the magnitude, correlates and pattern of herbal medicine use during pregnancy in Sierra Leone for women attending public health facilities. What this paper adds Evidence that there is high use of herbal medicine during pregnancy among women attending antenatal clinic of a tertiary maternal hospital in Sierra Leone.

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