A qualitative study of home management practices for minor disorders of pregnancy among antenatal mothers in central India

Background: Minor disorders of pregnancy are common and often managed at home using traditional and self-care practices, particularly in low-resource settings. Little is known about these practices among antenatal mothers in Central India. Aim: To explore the home management practices, decision-making processes, and sources of knowledge regarding minor disorders of pregnancy. Methods: A qualitative descriptive design was employed. Fifteen antenatal mothers attending the Obstetrics and Gynaecology OPD at AIIMS Raipur, India, were purposively sampled and participated in semi-structured in-depth interviews from July to August 2025. Data were analysed thematically using Delve software and the constant comparative method until saturation was reached. Results: Five major themes emerged: (1) Physical discomforts (gastrointestinal, musculoskeletal, neurological, urinary, and others); (2) Home remedies (food-based, topical/massage, lifestyle adjustments); (3) Decision-making in seeking care (preference for home remedies first, clear thresholds for medical help); (4) Sources of knowledge (predominantly family elders, supplemented by internet and occasional doctor validation); and (5) Cultural beliefs, cravings, and avoidance practices. Remedies such as ginger, salt–sugar solution, oil massage, and pillow support were widely used and perceived as culturally safe and effective. Conclusion: Antenatal mothers in Central India rely heavily on inexpensive, family-transmitted, culturally rooted remedies before seeking formal care. Healthcare providers should routinely inquire about these practices to provide respectful, evidence-informed guidance and strengthen maternal self-care education.