Avoiding the 'Chinese whispers' effect in maternity complementary therapies - educational issues for midwives

摘要

Complementary medicine has developed enormously in the last few years, with generally more acceptance by both consumers and professionals, but not necessarily with more understanding, particularly in relation to maternity care (Adams et al 2009). Pregnant women are amongst the most common users, either self-administering over-the-counter natural remedies or consulting practitioners of various different complementary therapies (CTs), for relaxation and relief of pregnancy symptoms. One of the principle reasons for use appears to be a mistaken belief that, because CTs are 'natural', this makes them, by inference, 'safe', yet this is not necessarily the case. There are numerous anecdotes of women seeking to use various aspects of complementary medicine without adequate, appropriate professional guidance; at best, these are ineffective and at worst - and more significantly - often frankly dangerous.