MATERNAL USE OF LOCAL HERBALS IN MATERNITY CARE IN NAKASEKE, UGANDA: PREVALENCE, CIRCUMSTANCES, AND OUTCOMES

Herbal medicine use is a long-standing practice in many African communities, especially in rural areas where cultural traditions and limited access to healthcare shape maternity care choices. In Uganda, women commonly rely on herbs during pregnancy, labour, and postpartum for managing discomforts, inducing labour, and promoting maternal health. Yet, uncertainties about safety and outcomes persist, making this study necessary to assess prevalence, circumstances, and outcomes in Nakaseke Town Council. The study adopted a descriptive cross-sectional design. The target population consisted of 3,571 women of reproductive age, from which a sample of 268 participants was selected using Cochran’s formula and random sampling technique. Data were collected through researcher-administered questionnaires, translated into Luganda for clarity, and pretested to ensure reliability. Analysis was conducted using SPSS version 23, employing descriptive statistics, chi-square tests, and regression to assess prevalence, usage circumstances, and associated outcomes. Herbal medicine use was widespread, with 91% of respondents reporting use during maternity care. Usage was mainly influenced by mothers (40.7%) and relatives. Herbs were applied for cough (53.7%), malaria (35.4%), labour induction (25.7%), and fertility enhancement. Outcomes included vaginal bleeding (32.5%), miscarriages (31.7%), and stillbirths (29.1%), alongside perceived benefits such as shortened labour (42.2%), improved fertility (42.2%), and relief of heartburn (36.9%). Hypotheses testing revealed significant associations between herbal medicine use and socio-demographic factors such as age, education, and marital status (p < 0.05), leading to rejection of the null hypotheses that such variables exert no influence. The study establishes that herbal medicine use is highly prevalent in Nakaseke maternity care, and driven by cultural norms and perceived effectiveness despite health risks. Targeted maternal health education, community engagement, and regulation of traditional practices are recommended for safeguarding maternal and neonatal outcomes.