Abstract

In Uganda, mothers use Herbal Medicines in pregnancy and labor at increasing rates, consequently, this results to premature labor, fetal distress, precipitate labor, risk of abortion and many others. This study aimed at identifying factors leading to increased use of herbal medicines by mothers during labor in Kakanju HC III Kakanju -Parish, Bushenyi District. A descriptive cross-sectional study was carried out among 40 mothers who were selected by simple random sampling. Contributing factors were assessed by vicariate analysis where HM use dependent analyzed against individual, social economic and facility factors. Odds ratio and p-values were established. Results found 28(70%) of mothers who attended ANC less than 4 times, 34(85.0%) had
used them before OR-1.190 p-0.257, 35(87.5%) believed that HM were without side effects OR- 1.446, p-0.008 and 28(70%) believed that HM contributed to better pregnancy outcomes with OR 5.571, p-0.00. 22(55.0%) earned less monthly with OR-1.143, p-0.687, and 35(87.5%) culture supported HM 1.238, p-0.124. Majority 34(85.0%) were not warned by health workers on dangers for HM use during labor, their OR-1.653, p-0.001. The study concluded on both individual factors
like less ANC attendance and beliefs on safety for HM, social economic factors like low income and cultural support for HM as well as facility related including lack of clear warning on HM use to have contributed to increase in HM use.