Pregnant women or those trying for a baby should not take herbal remedies because of the risk of dangerous side effects, an expert warned yesterday.
Dr. Diocles Twagira, director of Kiziguro hospital in Gatsibo district called upon pregnant women to avoid herbal remedies could contain toxic chemicals that could damage the unborn
Kiziguro hospital administration revealed that up to 85 per cent of women that get complications during child birth, use traditional medicine before visiting the experts.
“Some women get complications during child birth, resulting into still births. When we speak with them, up to 85% admit using traditional medicine during pregnancy,” said Dr. Mukama.
Though medically unacceptable, some women strongly believe traditional herbs are useful especially when witchcraft is involved.
Kiziguro hospital administration sensitises pregnant women regularly to attend to antenatal checkups.