Pnm-21: The Use and Adverse Reactions of Herbal Medicines during Pregnancy among Iranian Women

Background: The use of herbal remedies has increased despite the lack of scientific evidences about their safety and efficacy during pregnancy. This cross-sectional study aimed to explore the usage of herbal products during pregnancy amongst Iranian women based on their socio-demographic characteristics, assessment of side effects in mothers, and ultimately their possible effects on neonates. Materials and Methods: In total, 400 postpartum Iranian women and their singleton newborns were recruited during the first few days of postnatal period at Arash Hospital in Tehran, Iran. Data were collected in the course of a face-to-face interview by a pharmacist and completion of a questionnaire including maternal socio-demographic characteristics, medical history, pregnancy-related conditions, and all medicines used during pregnancy. Questions were used to gather the relevant information for up to one month before pregnancy. Medical notes were scrutinized for neonatal characteristics. Results: Of all 409 eligible women, 400 (97.8%) agreed to participate. At least one herbal medicine was used by 325 (81.2%) of the interviewed subjects. The use of herbal drugs was significantly (p<0.05) higher amongst the higher-educated, employed, and primiparous women. Mint, frankincense, flixweed, and olive oil were the most common used herbal preparations. Vitamins and minerals, anti-infectives, and gastrointestinal drugs were on the top of the list of non-herbal drugs. Nausea, vomiting, and heartburn were the most reported side effects with herbal remedies. Regarding neonates, jaundice and respiratory distresses were the most prevalent problems detected. Conclusion: This study indicates that taking herbal and non-herbal medications during pregnancy is common amongst Iranian women. Although not always safe, herbals are mostly used according to personal judgment without informing health care professionals. Pregnancy care providers should be aware of the potential risks and benefits of the commonly used herbal drugs by the pregnant women.