Prevalence and Factors Influencing the Use of Herbal Medicines During Pregnancy in Libya: A Cross-Sectional Study
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.54361/LJMR.19.2.18Keywords:
Herbal Medicine, Libya, Pregnancy, Knowledge, Attitude, PracticeAbstract
Background:: Herbal medicines (HM) are commonly used during pregnancy worldwide, but safety concerns exist due to limited regulation and evidence. This study assesses the prevalence, knowledge, attitudes, and practices of HM use among pregnant women in Libya. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional survey was conducted between March and June 2025, sampling 500 women across various regions in Libya. Participants completed a questionnaire evaluating their demographic characteristics, HM usage, and perceptions of safety and efficacy during pregnancy. Results: The results revealed that 50.8% of participants had used HM during pregnancy, with the third trimester being the most common period for use (44.6%). Cultural beliefs, perceived safety, and accessibility were key factors influencing the use of HM, with 77.8% relying on family or friends for advice. Alarmingly, 68.4% of women did not consult healthcare providers about their use of HM. Despite a general awareness of the side effects (88.6%), there was considerable uncertainty about the relative safety of HM compared to conventional medicine, with 26.2% of respondents unsure. The study showed that education level significantly influenced practices, with higher levels of education associated with less frequent use of HM during pregnancy (p <0.05). The number of children, previous pregnancies, and history of abortion have a significant effect on the increased use of HM (p <0.05). Conclusion: The study emphasizes the importance of improving patient education and provider engagement in the use of HM during pregnancy to reduce risks and promote safety. It also calls for regulatory frameworks to monitor HM use and prevent adverse outcomes, especially in vulnerable groups like pregnant women.
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