Study of awareness among pregnant women of the effects of drugs on the fetus and mother in Iran

Abstract Objective The aim of the study was to examine the awareness of Iranian pregnant women about the effects of drugs in pregnancy. Methods Awareness of 400 women in postnatal and prenatal wards was assessed using self-completion questionnaire, which included demographic information, medication use, and the level of information regarding the safety of drugs during pregnancy and the most susceptible periods in pregnancy. Results Out of 400 participants from prenatal and postnatal wards of two hospitals, 19.0% used medications other than vitamins and minerals supplements during pregnancy, and 7% believed in the safety of medications for mother and/or fetus during pregnancy. The first and second trimesters were believed to be the most and the least susceptible periods of pregnancy, respectively. Most information on drugs safety in pregnancy was obtained from physicians and health centers. Conclusions Present study indicates weaknesses in the awareness of this population and weak role of pharmacists in informing this vulnerable population. This study shows the requirement of training of this group of people in order to enhance the health of our community.