Agency
Midwives have raised serious concerns over the growing trend of pregnant women self-administering Misoprostol, a drug that is used to induce labor.
The practice, they say, has resulted in significant complications during childbirth, particularly in Isingiro district.
Evelyn Kamusiime, the Assistant District Health Officer in Charge of Maternal Reproductive and Child Health in Isingiro, revealed that research shows a rising number of expectant mothers purchasing and using Misoprostol on their own.
Pearl Agatha Kwikiriza, a midwife and secretary of the local Maternal and Neonatal Systems in Sheema district, attributes this trend to the misinformation expectant mothers receive from the internet.
She explains that many women incorrectly self-administer the drug after reading about it online, which often leads to premature births.
Dr. Richard Mugahi, a commissioner with the Ministry of Health, acknowledged that despite Misoprostol being approved and recommended for medical use, its improper administration is causing complications like uterine ruptures and premature births.
He confirmed that the Ministry of Health is in discussions with the drug manufacturer to lower the doses of Misoprostol. The Ministry of Health continues to emphasize the importance of proper medical supervision when administering Misoprostol, and is working to ensure that the drug is used safely to prevent unnecessary risks to both mothers and babies.
