CROSS-SECTIONAL ANALYSIS OF ATTITUDE & PRACTICE REGARDING USAGE OF COMPLEMENTARY & ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE IN GYNAECOLOGY AND OBSTETRIC AMONG PATIENTS PRESENTING AT LIAQUAT UNIVERSITY HOSPITAL

Objective: This study hopes to assess attitudes and practice of patients and healthcare providers towards the use of complementary and alternative medicine in matters related to gynaecology and obstetrics (e.g. puberty upsets, menstrual irregularities, pregnancy issues & menopausal complaints) in our society. Methodology: This cross-sectional analysis was conducted upon a total of 100 female patients presenting to the Liaquat University Hospital, Outpatient department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology (OBGYN). In addition to the patient sample, additional data of 20 doctors was also acquired to get qualitative data and deeper insight into the matter. Data was collected from March 2016 to March 2017. Results: Among the 100 subjects, 77 admitted to using complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) in several matters related to obstetrics and gynaecology. 33 subjects professed that they considered complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) a superior choice and only resorted to taking medication if and when they could not find relief with CAM. Among the subjects that admitted to suing CAM in matters related to OBGYN, 41 used CAM during pregnancy, 23 used it for menstrual irregularities, 9 used CAM for menopausal woes and 9 used it for other matters during puberty onset. Neither of the subjects reported any observed side-effects. All the doctors supported healthy use of CAM in line with medicinal therapy, but with the approval and under the observation of a doctor. The doctors while agreeing to the benefits of CAM, reported that they had observed many side-effects when patients resort to CAM for ending pregnancies.Conclusion: After careful consideration, it can safely be concluded that both patients and doctors have a healthy and encouraging attitude towards CAM in matters related to OBGYN, however, all medication and therapies should only be used with the approval and under the observation of healthcare professionals. Keywords: Complementary and Alternative Medication, Obstetrics, Gynaecology, Obstetrics, Lower back ache, Puberty, Menstruation, Pregnancy, Abortion and Menopause.