Prevalence and determinants of complementary and alternative medicine use during pregnancy: Results from a nationally representative sample of Australian pregnant women

Background Pregnant women have been identified as high users of complementary and alternative medicine (CAM). However, no research to date has provided a detailed analysis of the prevalence and determinants of CAMconsumption amongst pregnant women. Aim To examine the prevalence and determinants of CAMuse by pregnant women, utilising a national representative sample. Methods The study sample was obtained via the Australian Longitudinal Study on Women's Health. This paper is based on a sub-study of 1,835 pregnant women, administered in 2010. The women answered questions about CAMuse, demographics, pregnancy-related health concerns and health service utilisation. Results Complementary and alternative medicine use was found to be high with 48.1% (n=623) of pregnant women consulting a CAMpractitioner and 52.0% (n=842) of women using CAMproducts (excluding vitamins and minerals) during pregnancy. CAMpractitioner visits were more likely for selected pregnancy-related health concerns, namely back pain or back ache, neck pain and labour preparation. Women were less likely to consult a CAMpractitioner if they suffered with headaches/migraines. Employment was also found to be predictive of pregnant women's visits to a CAMpractitioner. Significant health history and demographic predictors of CAMproduct use were tiredness and fatigue, embarking on preparation for labour and having a university education. Conclusion Most pregnant women are utilising CAMproducts and/or services as part of their maternity care and obstetricians, general practitioners and midwives need to enquire with women in their care about possible CAMuse to help promote safe, effective coordinated maternity care.