Self-medication as a Health Problem in Pregnant Women in Mexico

Abstract

This research protocol addresses the issue of self-medication during pregnancy. It focuses on
understanding why pregnant women resort to self-medication instead of seeking specialized
medical help, which can result in complications, disturbances, and, in extreme cases,
spontaneous abortions. Emphasis is placed on the lack of information about the risks of
certain medications, especially those classified in categories A, B, C, and D.

This protocol is based on a descriptive design that combines the collection of bibliographic
data and local field research. It mentions findings that show a significant percentage of
pregnant women self-medicate, and the most commonly used medications include
over-the-counter analgesics such as paracetamol and ibuprofen, as well as vitamin
supplements.

It also focuses on the reasons for self-medication, including a lack of time to see a doctor and
difficulty accessing basic healthcare services. Pregnant women often lack knowledge of the
potential adverse effects of self-medication on themselves and their babies, and this is more
common in rural areas, among women aged 25 to 29, and with only a secondary education.

This research is based on the fact that self-medication during pregnancy can lead to
congenital malformations and other complications, which represents a public health problem
that also carries a significant economic cost to the healthcare system itself.

It mentions drug categories based on the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) classification,
such as A, B, C, D, and X, indicating the level of risk to the fetus. It highlights the
importance of educating pregnant women about the risks of self-medication and the need to
access proper medical care during pregnancy.

In summary, this research protocol focuses on a significant health issue related to

self-medication during pregnancy in Mexico, seeking to understand the motivations behind
this behavior, identify commonly used drugs, and raise awareness about the importance of
proper medical care during pregnancy and the need to educate expectant mothers about the
risks of self-medication.