ORANGE FARM. – First-time mother Mbali Mazibuko (20) experienced a traumatic incident after a sanitary pad was accidentally left inside her following the birth of her first child at Stretford Clinic on January 3.
The discovery was made by Mazibuko’s aunt, Puleng Khambule (50), who had been caring for her post-delivery. Khambule noticed something unusual when she felt movement inside Mazibuko’s stomach.
Speaking to Sedibeng Ster, Khambule revealed her suspicion arose due to a persistent odor despite regular bathing.
Khambule promptly contacted Mazibuko’s mother to address the issue. Upon examination, the mother and aunt confirmed that an item had been inadvertently left inside Mazibuko.
As a first-time mother without prior experience, Mazibuko had no way of discerning that something was wrong.
“I informed her mother to accompany her back to the birthing facility, where the medical staff successfully removed the pad,” Khambule stated.
Mazibuko recounted the experience, stating: “Upon reaching the clinic, I was taken to the doctor’s room, and the pad was removed.
The incident has deeply affected me because anything could have happened. I’m grateful that my aunt noticed the issue early and advised me to seek immediate assistance, preventing potential harm or even death.”
Struggling to come to terms with the incident, Mazibuko expressed her ongoing emotional distress.
Sandile Gwayi, the Communication Manager for the Johannesburg Health District, acknowledged the seriousness of the matter, stating:
“The Department of Health has established a temporary committee to conduct a thorough investigation. The investigation began on January 15th, and at this point, it is challenging for the department to specify actions against any nurse or staff member alleged to have been negligent.”
