Herbal Medicines use During Pregnancy: Perceptions of Pregnant Women and Associated Factors at Kawempe National Referral Hospital

Uganda still registers a higher rate of herbal medicine use during pregnancy ranging from 20.4% to 69.8%. Despite the high prevalence, there is limited data published on perceived safety and efficacy of herbal medicines during pregnancy. This study aimed at assessing the perceptions of pregnant women on herbal medicines use and the associated factors at Kawempe National Referral Hospital. In this cross-sectional study, 291 pregnant women who had come for antenatal care visits participated after informed consent. After a systematic sampling, a questionnaire was administered to collect data on demographics, perception on severity and efficacy. Majority of the participants were between 20–29 years of age and had attained a secondary level of education. Perception on safety was among 64.2% of pregnant women while perception on efficacy was at 73.2%. Level of education (p = 0.011, 0.012), Occupation (p < 0.001, = 0.009) and Use/non-use of herbal medicine during pregnancy (P < 0.001, 0,001) were significantly associated with the perceptions of pregnant women on the safety and efficacy of herbal medicine during pregnancy respectively. Majority of the pregnant women still perceive herbal medicines to be safe and effective during pregnancy. Therefore, sensitization and regulations by National Drug Authority should be enhanced.