IMPLICATIONS OF USE OF HERBAL MEDICINE AMONG WOMEN OF REPRODUCTIVE AGE DURING PREGNANCY, LABOUR AND POST-PARTUM PERIOD IN BENDE LGA OF ABIA STATE.

Abstract

The main purpose of this study was to explore the implications of  use of herbal medicine among women of reproductive age during pregnancy, labour and post-partum period in an urban setting in Bende LGA. The study adopted cross-sectional survey of the pattern of use of herbal medicine during pregnancy, labour and post-partum period. Each respondent provided cross-sectional/comprehensive information about use during all three stages. According to Moser et al (2017) cross-sectional survey is research which makes observations at only one period in time. The population of the study was 1,120 women per month seeking at least some antenatal, post natal and maternal child care services. This was used as a guide to determine the number of respondents to be targeted within the study period. Mothers in labor and those undergoing surgery were excluded on ethical grounds. A proportionate sampling was ten done according to the classes identified. A total of 165 women were picked as sample size. Methods of data collection used in the study included; interviews, observation and review of medical records and questionnaire. The instrument was validated. The pre-test was done by administered the tool to mothers with similar characteristics but not part of the target population to be studied. Chi-square test was used to compare differences between categorical variables at 0.5 significance level. The finding revealed that the prevalence of herbal medicines use during pregnancy, labour and post-partum period among women attending antenatal clinic at Bende provincial General hospital was 70%. This findings is higher to that is South Africa where 55% of women used herbal medicines during pregnancy. From the findings the study revealed that Health care personnel should educate themselves sufficiently to guide their patients in the safe use of herbs. Discussing the use of herbs in an open and nonjudgmental way will go a long way toward helping the patient and provider to communicate effectively about the use of herbs.