Naturopaths' engagement with preconception and perinatal care: A secondary analysis of the practitioner research collaboration and initiative

Abstract

Objectives

Naturopaths provide care to patients across all life stages and are visited by some members of their community for assistance with preconception, fertility, pregnancy and postnatal care. This study aims to describe the practice behaviours of naturopaths with a special interest in women’s health and who regularly provide care to pregnant women.

Methods

A secondary analysis of data collected through the Practitioner Research and Collaboration Initiative (PRACI).

Results

Of the 281 naturopaths included in the analysis, 79.4% (n=223) indicated they have an interest in women’s health and 70.1% (n=110/157) reported regularly treating pregnant women. Naturopaths who identified as having a clinical interest in women’s health were more likely to be female rather than male (OR 12.9) and were more likely to regularly prescribe herbal infusions (OR 3.5). Naturopaths who regularly treated pregnant women were more likely to also treat infants and toddlers (OR 8.8). Naturopaths were also less likely to report having received their first qualifications 15 or more years ago compared to less than 15 years ago if they reported regularly treating pregnant women (OR 0.1–0.2).

Conclusions

The self-reported practice behaviours of naturopaths providing care to women for reproductve and maternal health suggest a possible alignment with the domains prioritised in global health recommendations, however the degree to which naturopaths are providing accurate information is unclear. Naturopaths may play a role in the contemporary delivery of maternal and child health care, but a closer examination is needed to ensure women are receiving the appropriate care during this important life stage.