الفهرس 
IntroductionOnly 14 pages are availabe for public view
 |  | from | 163 |  |  |
| | | from | 163 | | |
Abstract
Complementary and alternative therapies (CATs) encompass a broad array of healing resources. They include all practices and ideas that may prevent or treat illness or promote health and wellbeing. They are classified into five main domains: Alternative / Whole Medical Systems such as Traditional Chinese medicine and homeopathy; Mind-Body Medicine such as relaxation and yoga; Biologically Based Practices such as diet, herbs, and vitamins; Manipulative and Body-Based Practices such as massage; and Energy therapies such as acupuncture and prayer. CATs are now a forefront issue as more and more of patients choose to use them around the whole world. In general, women use CATs more than men, and the group most likely to use them is affluent middle-aged women.
The most commonly used CATs are: herbal therapy, massage, megavitamins, acupressure, and acupuncture. The use of these therapies within midwifery practice is increasing. whereas women are discouraged from resorting to pharmaceutical preparations because of their potential teratogenic effects on the fetus.