Women's beliefs, views and practices concerning medication use during pregnancy in rural Malawi

Abstract

Background/Aim: Medication use by women of childbearing age is common and cannot be totally avoided because some pregnant women may have chronic pathological conditions that require continuous or uninterrupted treatment. Women may hold different beliefs about the use of medication during pregnancy, which affects their use. This study explores women's beliefs, views and practices concerning medication use during pregnancy. Methods: In this qualitative study, semi-structured interviews were held with 21 pregnant women (age range: 20–39 years) during their first visit to an antenatal clinic at Mitundu Community Hospital in Malawi. Data were collected using an interview guide between February and July 2010. Results: This is the first study in Malawi to interview women about their beliefs and views on medication use in early pregnancy. Notably, most women interviewed in this study did not rely wholly on western or traditional medicine, but used both. This was irrespective of age, parity and educational level. Three overarching themes emerged from the analytical process, namely: i) beliefs about modern and traditional medicines; ii) choice of medication during pregnancy; iii) protection from witchcraft. Conclusions: In general, the beliefs, views and practices of women concerning medication use during pregnancy demonstrate a reliance on superstitious or cultural beliefs to explain the causes of complications during pregnancy. Most of the women interviewed in this study had limited exposure to information, resulting in ignorance of medication use during pregnancy. Women need to be much better educated and encouraged to ask questions so that they are less accepting of superstitious beliefs.