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Self-medication practice among pregnant women in Wolaita Zone, Southern Ethiopia: An institutionally based cross-sectional study

Authors :
Temesgen Leka Lerango
Amsalu Alagaw
Abayneh Tunje
Eshetu Andarge
Bereket Duko
Asres Bedaso Tilahune
Semalgn Leka Lerango
Source :
Heliyon, Vol 9, Iss 3, Pp e13833- (2023)
Publication Year :
2023
Publisher :
Elsevier, 2023.

Abstract

Background: Self-medication is a treatment based on symptoms without prescription and medical consultation. Despite being one of the critical practices that impose a harmful effect on the fetus and the woman herself, evidence on its practice and associated factors are not well-documented. This study, therefore, assessed the self-medication practice and associated factors among pregnant women in Wolaita Zone, Southern Ethiopia. Methods: An institutionally based cross-sectional study was conducted at public health institutions in Wolaita Zone, Southern Ethiopia by recruiting a total of 408 pregnant women using a systematic random sampling technique between March 2019 and April 2019. We used the Antenatal care (ANC) registry as a sampling frame. A pre-tested, structured, interviewer-administered questionnaire used to depict Self-medication practice and associated factors. Data entered using Epi-data and analyzed by SPSS 23.0. Results: The overall prevalence of self-medication was 14.9% (95% CI:11–18). The odds of using self-medication may decreased by 75% for women who were in their third trimester (AOR = 0.25, 95% CI: 0.10, 0.64). However, the odds of practicing increased by 13-folds among pregnant women reported earlier (previous) self-medication experience (AOR = 13.62, 95% CI: 6.66–27.84). Conclusion: The prevalence of self-medication was high in the current study setting. Women's gestational period (third trimester) and earlier self-medication experience were associated with their current self-medication practice.

Details

Language :
English
ISSN :
24058440
Volume :
9
Issue :
3
Database :
Directory of Open Access Journals
Journal :
Heliyon
Publication Type :
Academic Journal
Accession number :
edsdoj.1638e6b065e4c31b1de1c8b9dcd6302
Document Type :
article
Full Text :
https://doi.org/10.1016/j.heliyon.2023.e13833