The use of medicines by pregnant women who receive care in Brazilian Universal Healthcare System

Objective: To identify the use of medicines by pregnant women who receive care at the Brazilian universal healthcare system, specifically in the municipal district of Bandeirantes, Parana. Methods: A cross-sectional descriptive study was used. A sample of 205 women participated in the study. Data were collected from July 2006 to November 2007 using a structured questionnaire. Results: A great number of participants (83.4%) reported they had used at least one medicine during their pregnancy and 8.2% of them used over-the-counter medicines. The majority of the women (80.5%) received warnings about the use of medicines during pregnancy There was significant statistical relationship between the last 3 months of pregnancy and the increase in medicines use. Although Ferrous sulfate (45.0%) and Paracetamol (43.4%) offer serious risks to the fetus, these two medicines were among those most used by the participants. Conclusion: Pregnant women have been exposed to a variety of medicines. There is a need to improve the quality of care to pregnant women in order to prevent potential risks to the fetus.