Filling the gaps in contemporary maternity care: The perceptions of complementary medicine practitioners providing care to women during pregnancy

Abstract

Background and purpose: As many as one in two women consult with a complementary medicine (CM) practitioner for pregnancy-related health care, yet little is known about the reason for such a high rate of use. This paper presents the perceptions of CM practitioners regarding the role they play within the existing maternity care system. Materials and methods: Semi-structured interviews with 15 CM practitioners were conducted and the transcripts analysed, using a Framework approach. Results: Key themes pertaining to the perceived role of CM practitioners in maternity care emerged. (1) Becoming a maternity care provider: responding to a need and filling gaps in the system; (2) Characterising CM maternity care: Holistic, nurturing and addressing unmet health concerns and; (3) Treating health complaints neglected by conventional maternity care. Conclusion: CM practitioners often acknowledge their specialist roles as part of a multidisciplinary team of practitioners rather than attempting to offer comprehensive pregnancy care.

Health needs, treatment decisions and experience of traditional complementary and integrative medicine use by women with diminished ovarian reserve: A cross‐sectional survey

“…The information about preconception care, menstrual cycle and ovulation, dietary approaches, environmental toxins, physical activity, and stress management was considered 'very beneficial' or 'somewhat beneficial' by 50% of women who undertook naturopathic management. This aligns with the findings of Steel et al 36 that suggest women may be consulting with a naturopath for preventative health care rather than to treat infertility.…”