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Clay ingestion adverse health experiences during pregnancy among African women in London

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Madziva, Cathrine, Njoroge, Kezia and Chinouya, Martha (2024) Clay ingestion adverse health experiences during pregnancy among African women in London. British Journal of Midwifery, 33. ISSN 0969-4900 (In Press)

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Abstract

Background/Aims: Scientific evidence points to the health risks associated with clay ingestion during pregnancy. However, little is known about African migrant women’s self-reported adverse health experiences from the practice, as well as adapted mitigating measures. This study aimed to explore these experiences to diversify the knowledge base.

Methods: This qualitative study used an interpretative phenomenological approach. Data were gathered from a purposive sample of 30 participants through individual semi-structured interviews. The data were analysed thematically.

Results: Self-reported adverse health experiences were mainly constipation and iron deficiency anaemia. Remedies applied included increased fibre and water intake, a traditional herb-clay mixture and medical interventions in the form of constipation pumps and laxatives. Anaemia resulted in blood transfusion and iron infusion in some cases.

Conclusions: Despite the known risks or drawbacks, many women continued to ingest clay during pregnancy, as it was a traditional or cultural practice in their communities. This could cause effects severe enough to merit medical intervention. Implications for practice: Community-led interventions in collaboration with public health authorities and practitioners that engage women regarding the potential health risks for mothers and their babies should be prioritised.

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