A Delphi Study on the Management of Female Infertility by Homeopaths in South Africa.

BACKGROUND

Infertility affects millions of people worldwide and has a negative social and psychological impact on the lives of infertile couples. Homeopathy offers an alternative treatment option for female infertility; however, there is currently no research describing how homeopaths manage this condition in their practice.

AIM

To determine homeopathic practitioners' approaches to managing female infertility.

METHOD

The electronic Delphi technique consisting of three rounds was used to establish consensus among homeopaths. Twelve registered homeopaths with a minimum of 5 years of clinical experience in managing female infertility participated, 11 of whom completed the study. In round one, participants elaborated on interventions found beneficial in clinical practice for female infertility. Responses were qualitatively analysed to create a structured list of items; participants rated their level of agreement with these items on a 5-point Likert scale in the second and third rounds. Consensus was determined for items that reached an agreement level of 75% or more.

RESULTS

Thirty-two statements achieved expert consensus, which were placed into the following categories: homeopathic treatment, dietary and lifestyle modifications, supplementation and referrals.

CONCLUSION

The results of this study provide a baseline depicting the homeopathic approach to treating female infertility. Several research gaps have been identified and further studies are necessary to explore these interventions to improve future patient care.

CONTRIBUTION

This study highlights the various approaches used by homeopathic practitioners in the management of female infertility.