Zhejiang woman hospitalized after beauty salon enema causes intestinal perforation

A 42-year-old woman in Zhejiang, China, was hospitalized in intensive care after undergoing a high-priced enema treatment at a beauty salon. The procedure, marketed as a “detoxification” service to improve skin radiance, resulted in a perforated intestine due to improper pressure and liquid volume during the operation.

The injury caused fecal matter to leak into the abdominal cavity, leading to diffuse peritonitis. While the woman has since stabilized and survived, medical professionals have issued warnings regarding such practices.

Chen Chenghao, a colorectal surgeon at Zhejiang Provincial Tongde Hospital, emphasized that enemas are medical procedures requiring strict control over liquid temperature, volume, and pressure. He noted that performing these operations in non-medical settings poses severe risks, including electrolyte imbalance, water intoxication, intestinal injury, and infection. Doctors further clarified that there is no medical evidence supporting enemas for cosmetic detoxification and warned that frequent use can disrupt intestinal flora and bowel reflexes.