A significant percentage of pregnant woman self-manage symptoms with herbal or alternative therapy. Sometimes this can have adverse effects on the mother or fetus.
Hazards:
(1) adverse effects from primary material
(2) adverse effects from undisclosed additives
(3) adverse effects of possible contaminants such as pesticides
According to Kennedy et al (2016) only about a quarter of herbal medicines are listed as safe during pregnancy.
Problems that may arise:
(1) teratogenic effects, especially if taken during the first trimester
(2) delay in diagnosis and therapy of a more significant problem
(3) a more effective or fetal friendly remedy may be available
(4) impaired fetal growth, stillbirth or prematurity
Some suggestions:
(1) Learn about the composition of the therapy and its purported source.
(2) Check to see if the compound is safe for use during pregnancy.
(3) Buy only from a reputable source with controlled product formulation.
(4) Ask the obstetrician or nurse midwife about safety prior to use.
(5) Consult with the obstetrician or nurse midwife if symptoms persist or get worse or if new symptoms develop. Do not increase intake in the remedy or add another.
