Background

Herbal medicinal drugs contain herbs, domestic remedies, natural preparations, and completed domestic-grown gadgets that include quantities of flora or different plant substances as energetic substances and utilized by the overall population including pregnant women

Aims

To assess the use of herbal medicine and predictors among pregnant women attending ANC clinic at Jigjiga University Shiek Hassan Yabare Referral Hospital, Eastern Ethiopia

Methods

A cross-sectional study design was conducted From February to July, 2021. A total of 332 pregnant women were drawn using systematic random sampling technique. Structured interviewer administered questionnaire was used to collect data. Data was analysed by using SPSS version 21 software. Frequencies of variables were generated; tabulation and percentages were used to illustrate study findings. Bivariate and multivariable logistic regression was used to analyse the association between the dependent and independent variables. P-value less than 0.05 considered as a statistically significant

Results

One hundred forty one (42.5%) used herbal remedies during current pregnancy. Age group of 25-34 years [AOR=4.11, 95 % CI: (1.47, 11.52)], being rural resident [AOR=2.9, 95 % CI: (1.15, 7.31)], income ≤ 4957 [AOR=3.36, 95 % CI: (1.27, 8.9)], good knowledge [AOR=0.39, 95 % CI: (0.17, 0.92)] and favorable attitude [AOR=3.74, 95 % CI: (2.2, 6.2)] were significantly associated with herbal medicine consumption during pregnancy

Conclusion

Herbal medicine consumption during pregnancy was common in the study area. Age, residence, average monthly income, knowledge and attitude on herbal remedies were significantly associated with herbal medicine use during pregnancy. Community based health education campaign recommended to change women’s perception and intentions towards herbal medicine utilization during pregnancy