A survey and analysis of using traditional Chinese medicine during pregnancy

Background: The usage of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) during pregnancy is very common for Chinese people. However, there are only a few studies relevant to the usage of TCM during pregnancy-providing very little knowledge on the benefits or harmful effects of these medicines to pregnant women or the fetus. Objectives: The purpose of this study is to survey the current situation of TCM usage during pregnancy, and to explore the factors that affect the use of TCM. Methods: Data was collected from pregnant patients who delivered in our hospital, from March 2012 to August 2012. All patients who agreed to join this study were asked to fill-up a questionnaire. Results: 1,010 patients were willing to participate in this study. 11.2% (113, 1,010) of patients used at least one kind of TCM during pregnancy. The average TCM usage is 2.1 species. The most commonly used drugs are Antai pill (39 cases, 34.5%), Xiaochaihu granules (31 cases, 27.4%), and Shengxuening tablets (23 cases, 20.4%). Patients who smoke during pregnancy (OR=1.8, 95% CI: 0.7 similar to 5.1), drink during pregnancy (OR= 1.6, 95% CI: 0.4 similar to 6.1), have been hospitalized during pregnancy (OR= 4.8, 95% CI: 2.9 similar to 7.9), have pregnancy complications (OR= 2.7, 95% CI: 1.5 similar to 4.9) and those who are infertile (OR= 2.6, 95% CI: 1.4 similar to 4.8) have higher chances of using TCM during pregnancy. Conclusions: Pregnant women commonly use TCM during pregnancy. Pregnant women who smoke, drink, hospitalized during pregnancy, experience pregnancy complications and infertility are more likely to use TCM.