Naturopathic and Integrative Care in Pregnancy and Postpartum: Cautions

Urgent first: warning signs in pregnancy and the year after

Some symptoms need help right away, whatever else you are using or trying. The Texas Department of State Health Services, in a list built around the ACOG warning signs, asks people to watch for them during pregnancy and for a year afterward.[1] Examples on that list include a headache that will not go away or gets worse, trouble breathing, chest pain or a fast-beating heart, and a baby's movements stopping or slowing during pregnancy.[1] The list says to contact your health care provider, and if you cannot reach them, to go to an emergency room or call 9-1-1.[1] In the US, call 911 for an emergency.

Thoughts about hurting yourself or your baby are also on that list.[1] The 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline is available 24/7/365.[2] If you or someone near you swallowed a product and you are worried, Poison Control lists 1-800-222-1222.[3]

This page is information only. It is not a substitute for prenatal or postpartum care.

What this page covers

People who are pregnant or recovering from birth often hear about herbal teas, supplements, homeopathic remedies, aromatherapy, yoga and other approaches. Some are offered by naturopathic doctors, by unlicensed naturopaths, by integrative clinics, or simply sold in shops. This page sets out what the sources we read say, using the same standard for every approach. For general cautions by practice, see therapies in pregnancy.

What the sources say overall

The UK National Health Service (NHS) says that not all "natural" remedies or complementary therapies are safe in pregnancy.[4] It adds that some products may not be of high quality and may contain other substances, such as lead, that could be harmful.[4] NHS advice is not to take herbal remedies if you are trying to get pregnant, and to tell your midwife, doctor or pharmacist about any herbal, homeopathic or aromatherapy remedies or therapies you use.[4]

In the US, the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health (NCCIH) says that if you are thinking about a supplement other than a vitamin or mineral, you should discuss it with your provider, because some supplements may not be safe in pregnancy or their safety may be uncertain.[5]

Specific questions, with the strength of evidence

Evidence on yoga and ginger comes from NCCIH's summary, not from a trial we read ourselves. Yoga and similar practices cannot be blinded, so expectation can shape how people feel.

Breastfeeding and the postpartum months

NCCIH says little is known about whether ginger is safe while breastfeeding, and that it is uncertain whether fenugreek actually increases milk, since studies had mixed results.[5] The warning-sign list above applies for a year after pregnancy ends, including vaginal bleeding or fluid leaking after pregnancy, fever, and thoughts of hurting yourself or your baby.[1] If you are breastfeeding, ask your clinician or pharmacist about any product before using it. For a wider look, see pregnancy and breastfeeding in Natural Remedy Safety.

Who may offer care, and how to compare

Licensed naturopathic physicians complete graduate-level education at a naturopathic medical school accredited by the Council on Naturopathic Medical Education, according to NCCIH.[7] Traditional naturopaths, also called simply naturopaths, may receive training through non-accredited programs that vary in length and content, and they are not eligible for licensing.[7] The scope of practice varies by state licensure and regulations.[7] Titles and rules differ by state and country, so check yours on the credentials and scope of practice page. The NHS says that if you do use these therapies you should consult a qualified practitioner and tell them you are pregnant before discussing treatment.[4]

Before you start anything new

• Tell your midwife, obstetrician or doctor everything you use, including teas and supplements.
• Do not stop a medicine prescribed to keep you healthy without first checking with your doctor. The NHS warns this can harm you and your baby.[4]
• Complementary therapies cannot replace conventional antenatal care, so keep your appointments.[4]
• Bring the product labels to your visit. See medication and supplement review.

Related reading: preconception, pregnancy and postpartum wellness and naturopathic and integrative care for fertility and pregnancy planning.