The role of naturopathy in pregnancy, labour and post-natal care: Broadening the evidence-base

It is known that women are high users of complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) including naturopathy and that CAM is frequently used by pregnant women. However, we still know little about the consumption, practice and role of naturopathy in pregnancy, labour and post-natal care. With this in mind, this paper proposes a possible framework for advancing further research on this topic. The framework is divided into issues associated with three core stakeholder groups – pregnant women, naturopaths/herbalists and other maternity health professionals including obstetricians, midwives and general practitioners. The development of a rigorous health services research agenda around this topic has much to offer maternity-care users, practitioners and policy makers and the framework outlined here is offered with the hope of inspiring further inquiry into this significant issue in women’s health.