Article ID Journal Published Year Pages File Type
2628229 Complementary Therapies in Clinical Practice 2011 5 Pages PDF
Abstract

PurposeThe purpose of this study was to investigate the use of herbal drugs by pregnant women in relation to concurrent use of conventional drugs, delivery, and pregnancy outcome.Method600 women at Stavanger University Hospital Norway were interviewed using a structured questionnaire within five days after delivery. Medical birth charts were reviewed with respect to pregnancy outcome.ResultsIn all, 39.7% of the women reported having used herbal drugs during pregnancy, most commonly ginger, iron-rich herbs, echinacea and cranberry. Although 86.3% of the women reported having used conventional drugs during pregnancy there were few potential interactions between herbal drugs and conventional drugs. There was a significant association between the use of iron-rich herbs during pregnancy and high birthweight, and use of raspberry leaves and caesarean delivery.ConclusionUse of herbal drugs is common during pregnancy and indicates a need for documentation about their safety in pregnancy.

Related Topics
Health Sciences Medicine and Dentistry Complementary and Alternative Medicine
Authors
, , , ,