Abortifacient herbs awareness among Saudi Women

Background: Evidence on the safety of herbal products use is still inadequate to substantiate their safety among pregnant women. Herbal usage is differing according to geographical availability, experience and believes. Saudi Arabian community is one of those old communities that encouraged herbal medicines and trusting the safety of plants available in the area even during pregnancy. The main objective of this study was to assess the knowledge and attitude of Saudi women toward herbal usage in pregnancy and to identify the commonest herbs used during pregnancy. Methodology: A questionnaire based cross sectional study conducted in January -march 2017). A total of 577 Saudi women responded to questions regarding demographic data, educational level, gynecological history, believes on herbal Safety during pregnancy and their source of information with listing of abortifacient herbs they knew. Data was analyzed by SPSS version 24. Results: 67.6 % were in the range between (20-40) years. 76.6% were of high educational level and34.3% had completed three to five successful pregnancies, 97% are not agree with using herbs in pregnancy. The majority mentioned Ginger, Annise, Cumin, fenugreek as their commonly used herbs in pregnancy.62% based their information on family and friend’s recommendations. Conclusion: The study emphasized that although high education level effect is reflected on the believes regarding safety ,still usage of herbs during pregnancy is depending on family and friend’s experiences and no obvious information provided by expertise in clinics or media to regulate usage and avoid unsafe during pregnancy or even home induced abortion.