The Zimbabwe National Family Planning Council (ZNFPC) has warned women against using unregulated herbal products marketed for intimate health, saying they may cause serious reproductive health risks.
Speaking at a media workshop last Friday, ZNFPC nurse Fungai Mushosho said there is growing use of products sold outside pharmacies and health facilities, such as Ibhodo Labafazi, Pisa Pisa and Weti Yegudo, which are promoted for vaginal tightening and cleansing.
“Don’t put inside your body what you do not know. Most of these herbs are not prescribed through pharmacies or health institutions, yet women continue to use them without knowing what they contain,” Mushosho said.
“We are seeing an increase in cervical cancer cases, and most of these cases are a result of the herbs that women are inserting into their vaginas.”
Mushosho linked the products to a rise in cervical cancer cases and urged women to seek professional healthcare, go for regular cervical cancer screening and avoid self-medicating with unverified products.
“Women should visit health facilities for cervical cancer screening and seek professional advice before using any product,” she said.
“Early detection saves lives, and it is important for women to protect their reproductive health by avoiding unregulated herbs and relying on approved medical treatment.”
The World Health Organisation says cervical cancer is mainly caused by persistent infection with high-risk human papillomavirus (HPV), with screening, vaccination and early treatment being the most effective prevention methods.
More: Midweek Watch
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