The use of herbal medicine by pregnant women during intrapartum period at selected public hospitals in Sekhukhune District, Limpopo, South Africa

Abstract

Black South African women use herbal medicine during the intrapartum period. Research has proven that some herbal medicine may have a negative impact on both the mother and the fetus during labour and delivery. The aim of the study was to investigate the use of herbal medicine by pregnant women during the intrapartum period, at selected public hospitals in the Sekhukhune District, Limpopo, South Africa. The objectives of the study were to determine the use of herbal medicine by pregnant women during the intrapartum period and to develop a health education programme for communities around the Sekhukhune District, Limpopo, South Africa. Quantitative research method was used, and data were collected using selfdesigned questionnaire. Total of 192 respondents out of 370 population participated in the study. Simple random sampling was used. The questionnaire was piloted in a different setting to ensure reliability. Data were analysed using SPSS version 24. The outcome of the analysis was presented as frequencies and percentages in tables, pie charts and bar graphs. Ethical standards were adhered to throughout the study. One hundred and ninety-two (192) women were invited to participate in the study all of which were from surrounding areas. None of the women declined participation. A total of 192 post-partum women answered the questionnaires. Of the 192, 76% used herbal medicine during the intrapartum period. The mean age is 19 years. Mostly, those who are Sepedi speaking are dominant in the area (at 76%). Pregnant women commonly ingested herbal medicine to induce labour or during labour to accelerate delivery at 56%. The result highlighted that the prevalence of the use of herbal medicine during the intrapartum period was high among women in the Sekhukhune District. Therefore, healthcare professionals should have knowledge about herbal medicine used by pregnant women during the intrapartum period and educate them about the dangers and effects of the herbal medicines, both to the mother and the fetus.