Factors contributing to the use of traditional herbal medicine among hospitalised high-risk pregnant women in Namibia

Abstract

Background: Traditional herbs are widely used during pregnancy, especially in developing countries, influenced by cultural beliefs and accessibility. Pregnant women often use these remedies to relieve discomfort. Despite ongoing debate about their safety and efficacy, little is known about factors influencing their use, highlighting the need for further research and clearer clinical guidance to ensure maternal and foetal safety.
Aim: The purpose of this study was to explore and describe the factors contributing to the use of traditional herbs among pregnant women at Rundu Intermediate Hospital, Kavango East Region, Namibia.
Setting: The study was conducted in the maternity wards of an intermediate hospital in Namibia.
Methods: A qualitative, explorative, descriptive design was employed. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews guided by open-ended questions. Fifteen pregnant women were purposively sampled based on inclusion criteria.
Results: Four main themes emerged from the data analysis: reasons for using traditional herbs during pregnancy, perceived benefits of traditional herbs, motivating factors influencing the use of traditional herbs and strategies to address the use of traditional herbs.
Conclusion: The study concluded that pregnant women’s widespread use of traditional herbal remedies is motivated by cultural beliefs, perceived health benefits and accessibility. Accordingly, it would appear that pregnant women may have insufficient awareness of potential risks.
Contribution: Findings from this study can be used to implement culturally responsive health education on the risks and consequences of the use of herbal remedies, as well as to strengthen prenatal promotion programmes to ensure safe and integrated maternal care outcomes.