JEDDAH: Gynecologist Dr. Ahmed Al-Badr says he is revolutionizing women’s health in the Kingdom with his Saudi Food and Drug Authority-approved line of feminine products called Bylsan.

Driven by Al-Badr’s dedication to enhancing women’s health and meeting their unique needs, he says these offer innovative herbal solutions that could transform the industry.

The former King Fahad Medical City researcher and executive director for research, who is also an expert in urogynecology (also known as female pelvic medicine and reconstructive surgery), Al-Badr has a passion for herbal medications. He created Bylsan after noticing the need for properly formulated and hygienic herbal products for women.

“While working as a researcher, I saw the potential of herbal medications for women’s health, but they were not available in the market,” Al-Badr said. “After retiring, I finally had the opportunity to create products that could make a difference in women’s lives.”

Al-Badr said switching from being a doctor to an entrepreneur posed challenges, including a lack of business knowledge and finding a laboratory to develop and produce the formula.

“I had to find a lab, work on samples, make content changes and handle registrations,” he added. “It was a steep learning curve, but I was determined to bring my vision to life.”

Despite being diagnosed with cancer, his passion for creating his products remained unwavering. Although he had to slow down during his treatment, he continued to develop them.

Al-Badr used social media extensively to spread the word about Bylsan, providing videos and engaging with his followers on women’s health issues.

“When introducing Bylsan, I emphasized its purpose and potential benefits beyond commercial gain,” he said. “Building trust and credibility was crucial in showing people the true usefulness and purpose behind what I’m doing.”

The first Bylsan product is a vaginal wash with myrrh and lavender extracts. Al-Badr said it improves healing, provides post-surgery or delivery pain relief, and reduces infection risk. He is developing four other women’s health products.

“This is just the beginning,” Al-Badr said. “I have 15 products ready for manufacturing, but financial limitations are currently hindering production. However, I’m committed to expanding the Bylsan range for comprehensive women’s health solutions.”

Dr. Samir Ghazi Hamada, a consultant obstetrician and gynecologist at the National Guard Hospital in Dammam, hailed the benefits of the Bylsan wash. He said it is especially beneficial for women experiencing fungal infections, odorous discharge or recurrent infections.

Dr. Ghadeer Al-Shaikh, a professor and consultant in urogynecology, said the Bylsan wash could be used as an antiseptic agent after gynecological surgery.

She added that Bylsan reduces the risk of infection by killing or inhibiting the growth of microorganisms in the intimate area.

“Patients have reported fewer symptoms of discharge and irritation postoperatively, expressing high satisfaction with the product,” Al-Shaikh said.

Customers have also praised the products. Alia from Riyadh said: “I have used it for two months and the results are great. For the first time, I used a wash that suits me and does not cause me allergies.”

Tagreed from Jeddah described Bylsan as a safe wash that helped her overcome inflammation.