Female genital mutilation

Question 1

What is female genital mutilation?

Answer 1

Surgically changing the genitals of a female for non-medical reasons. FGM is a cultural practice that usually occurs in girls before puberty. It is a form ofchild abuseand asafeguardingissue.

Question 2

Where is FGM most common?

Answer 2

Somalia
Ethiopia
Sudan
Eritrea
Yemen
Kurdistan
Indonesia

Question 3

What are the 4 types of FGM

Answer 3

• Type 1: Removal of part or all of the clitoris.
• Type 2: Removal of part or all of the clitoris and labia minora. The labia majora may also be removed.
• Type 3: Narrowing or closing the vaginal orifice (infibulation).
• Type 4: All other unnecessary procedures to the female genitalia.

Question 4

What are some possible scenarios that suggest risk of FGM

Answer 4

• Pregnant women with FGM with a possible female child
• Siblings or daughters of women or girls affected by FGM
• Extended trips with infants or children to areas where FGM is practised
• Women that decline examination or cervical screening
• New patients from communities that practise FGM

Question 5

Immediate complications of FGM

Answer 5

• Pain
• Bleeding
• Infection
• Swelling
• Urinary retention
• Urethral damage and incontinenceLo

Question 6

Long term complications of FGM

Answer 6

• Vaginal infections, such as bacterial vaginosis
• Pelvic infections
• Urinary tract infections
• Dysmenorrhea(painful menstruation)
• Sexual dysfunction anddyspareunia(painful sex)
• Infertility and pregnancy-related complications
• Significant psychological issues and depression
• Reduced engagement with healthcare and screening

Question 7

Who should be contacted if FGM is found in patients under 18

Answer 7

Police (Mandatory)
Social services
Paediatrics
Specialist gynaecology or FGM services
Counselling

Question 8

How may FGM be managed?

Answer 8

De-infibulation in cases of type 3 FGM