Banjul, The Gambia – Health authorities in The Gambia are raising alarm over a growing practice among women involving the intravaginal use of a local powdered tobacco called “taba” or “tabaa.”
While taba has traditionally been sniffed, chewed, or smoked in parts of West Africa, some women are now inserting a paste made from the powder into their vaginas, believing it offers health benefits ranging from weight loss to fertility enhancement.
Despite being classified as a harmful substance by the Gambian government in 2020, taba continues to circulate through discreet networks of local vendors, often operating in informal markets.
Dr Fatou Jallow, a public health expert in Banjul, warned: “The intravaginal use of taba is extremely dangerous. Women are exposing themselves to burns, infections, and even long-term reproductive harm. There is no medical evidence supporting any of the perceived benefits.”
According to research conducted between 2022 and 2023, lifetime use of intravaginal taba among women in certain regions is estimated at 17–24%, with higher prevalence in rural areas, among women over 40, and those with lower educational levels. Around 63% of users report feeling addicted to the substance.
Reported motivations for the practice include enhancing sexual pleasure, treating infections, improving fertility, self-stimulation, and even competition within polygamous marriages. However, medical authorities stress that the risks far outweigh any perceived benefits.
Potential health consequences include irritation, scarring, disruption of vaginal pH, bacterial or parasitic infections, infertility, complications in pregnancy and childbirth, and increased risk of vaginal or cervical cancers due to carcinogens present in tobacco. Severe reactions, such as loss of consciousness, have also been reported in neighbouring countries.
Dr Jallow emphasised: “Women who have concerns about sexual or reproductive health should consult qualified medical professionals. Using taba intravaginally is not a solution—it is a public health hazard.”
The Ministry of Health, alongside local NGOs and organisations like the World Health Organisation, is calling for awareness campaigns to educate women about the dangers of intravaginal tobacco use and promote safe alternatives for sexual and reproductive health.
Experts also note that this practice is unrelated to female genital mutilation (FGM), which is separately banned in the country.
With growing concern about addiction and severe health risks, authorities are urging both women and communities to abandon the practice and seek professional medical guidance.
