Factors associated with use of herbal drugs during pregnancy in Rungwe district Mbeya region, Tanzania

Abstract

Although there is no report directly linking between the use of herbal drugs during pregnancy and maternal or foetal mortality, several studies reveal the adverse effect of herbal medicine to the foetal and pregnant mothers. The use of herbal drugs during pregnancy in Tanzania is a common practice. However, little is known regarding prevalence and factors associated with use of local herbs during pregnancy. This study collected data from 253 women in four villages of Rungwe District Mbeya Tanzania. Data were collected using questionnaire in June 2010. Questionnaire was based on factors, prevalence, and perception of local herbal use among pregnant women. Data were analysed as frequencies, percentage as well as analysis of variance. One third of the respondents had used herbal drugs during pregnancy. Distance from health facilities, and age of the respondents were found to have association with use of local herbs among pregnant women. Negative perceptions on local herbs use during pregnancy have protective effect on the use of local herbal during pregnancy. Health education on the danger of using local herbs during pregnancy should be provided to mothers and general population especial women approaching reproductive ages who are expected mothers, because their information may influence their decision. Also, District and national level authorities should insist the construction of health facilities near to the community to improve conventional health services accessibility.