Therapies that require caution
The use of natural therapies, or alternative remedies, has increased dramatically over the last two decades. Its popularity (and evolving research findings) has meant that many treatments have become more respected, and therefore more readily regarded as 'mainstream' (and in some cases even embraced) by western medicine. Natural therapies are often used instead of, or in combination with, traditional medical treatments - hence the common use of the term 'complimentary medicine'.
It is possible to use either natural or medical treatments to gain health benefits. However, increasingly, both approaches are playing important roles in our modern health care (for example, vitamin therapy after major surgery for recovery). But while most people are very aware of the possible side effects of medications and drugs, not many associate natural therapies with being 'harmful'. It is important to be aware that any treatment that is capable of producing noticeable effects on your body (whether 'medical' or 'natural') is also capable of creating unwanted (and even dangerous) side affects for you and/or your baby. To dispel a great myth held by many people:
Just because it is 'natural' doesn't necessarily mean it is always safe.
Pregnant women and parents of new babies need to be very aware of their use and the safety of various natural therapies. The inappropriate use (or incorrect self-prescription) of some remedies is relatively common because many natural therapies are readily accessible without consulting a qualified practitioner. Problems can arise when a person lacks specialised knowledge about specific dosages for a remedy and/or their effects on the unborn or breastfeeding baby, as well as any possible interactions they may have with other natural therapies or prescribed medications.