Complementary and alternative medicine in obstetrics: a survey from Iran.

PURPOSE: This survey assessed the use of complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) methods by obstetricians in the Islamic Republic of Iran. METHODS: Obstetricians in the province of Tehran were identified using the "Ketabe 118 Mashaghel" (2008), a source of medical department information. A survey on the use of CAM methods during childbirth and the reasons behind their application was conducted on site. RESULTS: CAM methods are by in 37.3% (62/166) of the obstetricians. Acupressure, massage, and phytotherapy were found to be the most frequently used methods. Use of CAM was influenced by the employment status of the midwives and inversely correlated with the number of deliveries in the hospital. CONCLUSIONS: CAM methods are used in Iran to some extent. With evidence-based medicine in mind it is interesting to note that in Iran mainly CAM methods which already have some proven benefit are used.