Dr. Zainab Buhari has urged women experiencing uterine prolapse to seek proper medical care instead of relying on herbs or traditional remedies, warning that inserting herbal preparations into the vagina could worsen the condition and cause additional complications.
The medical professional made the call in a post shared on her Facebook page, where she described uterine prolapse as a medical condition that requires proper diagnosis and treatment.
‘Herbs Do Not Cure Uterine Prolapse’
Buhari said women should stop inserting herbs, hot herbal water, black soap and other substances into the vagina in an attempt to treat uterine prolapse.
“Herbs do not cure uterine prolapse. Go to the hospital,” she said, stressing that many women were suffering in silence and potentially worsening their condition through self-treatment.
Uterine prolapse occurs when the uterus descends from its normal position into the vagina because the muscles and supporting tissues of the pelvic floor become weakened.
According to Buhari, the condition is relatively common among women who have had multiple vaginal deliveries, those who frequently engage in heavy lifting, women who have gone through menopause and those who experienced prolonged labour.
Symptoms of Uterine Prolapse
She listed several symptoms that women should watch out for, including a sensation that something is falling out of the vagina, persistent lower back or pelvic pressure, and urinary leakage when coughing, laughing or walking.
Other symptoms may include difficulty sitting or walking, difficulty passing stool and pain during sexual intercourse.
Buhari warned that women who experience such symptoms should not resort to unverified remedies or feel ashamed about seeking medical attention.
‘Herbs Cannot Tighten Weak Pelvic Muscles’
Explaining why herbal insertions cannot reverse the condition, Buhari said the uterus is supported by muscles and ligaments, which may become weak over time.
“When those muscles become weak and loose, herbs cannot tighten them. It is not a wound that herbs can heal,” she said.
She further warned that inserting herbal preparations into the vagina could result in complications such as infections, persistent foul-smelling discharge, vaginal sores and bleeding.
According to her, such practices could potentially make the prolapse more severe and dangerous.
Buhari Urges Women to Seek Medical Treatment
The doctor advised women experiencing symptoms of uterine prolapse to first remove the shame and stigma associated with the condition.
She said uterine prolapse should not be regarded as a spiritual attack or curse, but as a medical condition that can be treated.
“This is not a spiritual attack. It is not a curse. It is a medical condition and it is very treatable,” she said.
Buhari advised affected women to consult a qualified gynaecologist at a hospital rather than relying on chemists, herbal sellers or unqualified practitioners.
She noted that treatment depends on the severity of the condition and may include the use of a pessary, a device inserted into the vagina to provide support, pelvic floor exercises for some mild cases, or surgery where necessary.
She encouraged women not to allow fear or embarrassment to prevent them from seeking treatment, particularly when the condition interferes with their ability to work, care for their families or live normally.
‘You Deserve to Live Free Again’
Buhari urged women experiencing symptoms to seek medical attention promptly rather than carrying the condition for years in silence.
“You cannot be carrying heavy loads, running your business, taking care of your family while hiding this pain for years. You deserve to live free again,” she said.
She also appealed to women who receive the message to share it with their mothers, sisters, aunts and neighbours who may be experiencing similar symptoms but are reluctant to discuss them.
Buhari concluded by encouraging anyone experiencing possible symptoms of uterine prolapse to visit a hospital for proper examination and treatment.
