The prevalence of self-medication in breastfeeding mothers during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Background: Self-medication is an important health and social issue, especially for women due to critical periods such as pregnancy and lactation. Accordingly, this study aimed to investigate the use of nonprescribed medications by lactating mothers visiting health centers affiliated to Kerman University of Medical Sciences during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Material and methods: This descriptive-analytical cross-sectional study was conducted in Kerman from October to December 2020. The research population included all lactating women who visited health centers affiliated to Kerman University of Medical Sciences to receive health services. The data in this study were collected using a checklist.

Results: A total of 228 mothers who met the inclusion criteria participated in the study. A total of 221 mothers (97.0%) received nonprescribed medications (377 drugs in total). Among 377 nonprescribed medications, 279 drugs (74.0%) could be used while breastfeeding. The three most commonly used nonprescribed medications were acetaminophen tablets (84 [22.3%]), gelofen compound (51 [13.5%]), and adult cold medications. The majority of the mothers, 153 (40.6%), chose nonprescribed medications based on pharmacy staff recommendations. The COVID-19 outbreak was the most common reason for using 246 (65.3%) nonprescribed drugs. There was a statistically significant relationship between the mothers' education and the accuracy of their information about the side effects of nonprescribed medications use.

Conclusion: The prevalence of self-medication by lactating women during the COVID-19 pandemic was very high. A significant percentage of the mothers did not have correct information about the adverse effect of arbitrary use of nonprescribed drugs on their babies.