Self-administered homeopathy part two: a follow-up study

Abstract

Self-administered homeopathic remedies may be acceptable and effective for women and their partners during pregnancy, birth and after birth. They may also reduce the use of pharmacological pain relief methods and promote less intervention during childbirth. However, there has been very little research in this area to date. This second paper discusses a follow-up study that used a semi-structured interview technique to explore further the experiences of women and their partners following the use of a specifically chosen homeopathic kit that included ten remedies for self-administration. Interviews were undertaken in the homes of 18 women who reside in the South Leeds area, West Yorkshire during a six month period (September 2005 to February 2006). Four themes were generated from the data, namely how remedies were used, empowerment, emotional needs, fathers and birth partners. The final core theme was a positive birth experience. The interviews demonstrated that women and several birth partners experienced positive emotional, psychological and physical benefits from using the kit of homeopathic remedies. Self-administered homeopathy has the potential to promote a women-led approach to childbirth and an active supportive role for the birth partner. The findings will form the foundations to undertake further research in this field.