Journal article
A preliminary survey of the use of complementary and alternative medicines in childbearing women
Evidence-Based Midwifery, Vol.11(4), pp.128-131
2013
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Abstract
Objective. This paper is a report of the findings from a research project designed to explore complementary and alternative medicines (CAM) activity among a group of childbearing women in the north of England. Method. A descriptive questionnaire survey was designed to explore CAM activity with a sample (distributed to 85 women, of which 40 responded). Ethical approval was obtained from the NHS trust and the University of Hull. Findings. Questionnaire data revealed that 17 out of 40 women (42.5%) engaged with CAM. A total of 11 (27.5%) had been offered CAM as part of their routine NHS care. Seven women (17.5%) used CAM after suggestion from a midwife, five (12.5%) used CAM by personal choice, and three (7.5%) had been encouraged by a friend or relative or 'another source' to use a form of CAM. In 11 (27.5%) cases, a midwife was aware of the use of CAM. However, four women (10%) stated they did not inform their midwife that they were using CAM. Conclusions. A number of women are engaging with different forms of CAM. NHS provision appears to be fairly accurate in meeting the needs of this group of women. A small proportion of women using CAM are seeking advice from their midwife, and this is concerning. The findings from this preliminary survey present some evidence of a consumer interest in these medicines. The findings reflect the suggestion made by Jones (2012), that midwives in their attempts to promote models of care that seek to focus on a woman-centred and a midwifery-led approach, appear to be 'pseudo consumers' of CAM. Implications. Researchers and practitioners should gain more insight into how women engage with, and want to engage with CAM. Midwifery research needs to effectively engage with the issue of consumer demand, and distinguish this from consumer interest. Further research is required in relation to midwives and their 'pseudo consumer' role of CAM use. There are growing opportunities to design and deliver relatively simple CAM treatments that meet women's needs. Midwives could use the booking interview and antenatal consultations to encourage women who are engaging with such medicines to seek advice from the appropriate CAM practitioner in relation to safety and efficacy. 33 references
Details
- Title
- A preliminary survey of the use of complementary and alternative medicines in childbearing women
- Creators
- Julie Jomeen (Author) - Southern Cross University, School of Health and Human SciencesCatriona Jones (Author) - University of HullOla Ogbuehi (Author) - University of Hull
- Publication Details
- Evidence-Based Midwifery, Vol.11(4), pp.128-131
- Publisher
- Redactive Publishing Ltd.
- Identifiers
- 991012871199502368
- Academic Unit
- Faculty of Health; School of Health and Human Sciences; Nursing
- Language
- English
- Resource Type
- Journal article