Use of herbal medicines during pregnancy in a group of Bangladeshi women

BACKGROUND: Pregnancy-related illnesses are commonly treated by herbal medicines in our country as well as around the world. OBJECTIVES: The purpose of this study was to find out how common herbal use is among Bangladeshi pregnant women, what factors influence it, and how it affects pregnancy outcomes. METHODS: Random sampling was done among women who gave birth between July and September 2021 in the maternity ward of an NGO-based clinic and were requested to participate in the face-to-face questionnaire-based survey. RESULTS: 275 women (71.80%) out of 383 used herbs during their pregnancy. Only 27.42% of women who used herbs informed their doctors, and 91.03% of users reported no side effects. Most users thought that herbs were safer than allopathic medications (71.8%). The ground behind the choosing herb was suggestion from family members or self-medication (34.73% and 31.83%, respectively). Ginger (Zingiber officinale Roscoe) (73.10%), lemon (Citrus limon L. Burm. F) (71.27%), black seed (Nigella sativa) (66.55%), mustard oil (Brassica Juncea Mane Kancor) (65.45%), and prune (Prunus domestica) (41.45%) were the most widely utilized herbs. The majority of women used herbs on a daily basis. There were statistically significant differences in several socio-demographic characteristics and pregnancy outcomes between herb users and non-users. CONCLUSIONS: The usage of herbs throughout pregnancy is quite prevalent amid Bangladeshi womenfolk, according to this study. Herbs appear to be safe when used often during pregnancy. Furthermore, physicians or medical practitioners have to play a vital role in ensuring the safe usage of herbs among pregnant women.