Introduction: The use of herbs to relieve problems in pregnancy and to prepare for childbirth is known for centuries. The prevalence of the use of herbal preparations during pregnancy is extremely high, despite the fact that the evidence on the safety and efficacy of herbs during pregnancy is limited. Purpose: The purpose of this thesis is to examine the results of researches done until this day on the safety of certain herbs in pregnancy and their efficacy in relieving common pregnancy problems and preparing for childbirth. The research work will among other, determine the prevalence and most common used herbs among the pregnant women in Slovenia. Methods: The theoretical part summarizes the domestic and foreign literature that examines the use, safety and efficacy of herbs in pregnancy. For the empirical part of the thesis an existing questionnaire was used, which was translated into Slovenian language. The study included 397 Slovenian pregnant women and mothers, who responded to the invitation to take a survey on the website. Questions were related to the use of herbs in pregnancy and treatment of the most common pregnancy problems. The results obtained were analyzed. Results: The questionnaire showed that prevalence of herbal use among Slovenian pregnant women is 80%, which is among highest in world. Most commonly used herbs in Slovenia are ginger, chamomile, raspberry leaves and cranberries. Discussion and conclusion: Only selected herbs have been researched and are proven to be efficient and safe during pregnancy, except for ginger. No harmful effects on mother and fetus were detected at echinacea, cranberry, raspberry leaves, dates and St. John’s wort. However, the use of herbs is recommended in moderation and additional research that would confirm safety and effectiveness in alleviating problems during pregnancy and preparation for childbirth. The study showed that the prevalence of the use of herbal preparations during the Slovenian pregnant women is extremely high. Given the lack of evidence of safety and efficacy of herbal preparations during pregnancy, this is the reason this concern.
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