Once treated, twice harmed: A case report of acquired gynatresia following vaginal insertion of herbs

Abstract

Gynatresia is the narrowing or complete occlusion of the vagina, which may be congenital or acquired. In Nigeria, acquired gynatresia is more common, usually resulting from the use of herbal pessaries. Its mere occurrence is indeed one social calamity to many. We present a case of a 37-year-old P0+1 with acquired gynatresia following insertion of herbal pessaries at a trado medical center. This was in an attempt to treat cryptomenorrhea which had developed following an abortion complicated by uterine perforation at a private hospital 20 years prior. Poor quality of medical care may push women to seek unsafe alternatives, resulting in even more harm.