Female genital mutilation Flashcards
What is female genital mutilation?
All procedures that involve partial or total removal of the external female genitalia or other injury to the female genital organs for cultural or non medical reasons
What are the different types of FGM?
Type 1- clitoridectomy;partial or total removal of the clitoris and in very rare cases only the prepuce
Type 2- excision- partial or total removal of the clitoris and the labia minora with or without labia majora excision
Type 3- infabulation- narrowing of the vaginal opening through the creation of a covering seal. Seal is formed by cutting and repositioning the inner or outer labia, with or without removal of the clitoris
Type 4- other- all other harmful procedures of the female genitals for non medical purposes
What is de-infibulation
The surgical procedure to open up the closed vagina of FGM type 3
What is re-infibualtion
Re stitching of FGM type 3 to reclose that vagina after childbirth
What are the justifications for FGM?
Preservation of virginity and chastity Religion in the mistaken belief that is a religious requirement Social acceptance Fear of social exclusion To ensure the girl is marriageable or to improve marriage prospects Hygiene and cleanliness Increasing sexual pleasure for the male Family honour Enhancing fertility
Who typically receives FGM
FGM is mostly carried out on young girls between brit hand age 15, most common age is 4-10. Most common in the horn of Africa and along the saharan line. Very high in Egypt, depends on the individuals culture, not there specific region
Who performs FGM?
most often carried out by traditional cutters or circumcisers. These women will often have a very respected role within the community More than 18% of all FGM is performed by healthcare providers
What are the acute complications of FGM?
Severe pain and shock Infection Injury to adjacent tissues Sprains, dislocations, broken bones or internal injuries from being restrained immediate fatal haemorrhage infection by blood borne virus
What are the long term issue surrounding regarding FGM?
Urine retention and difficulties in menstruation
uterine, vaginal and pelvic infections, cycts and neuromas
Complications in pregnancy and childbirth, increased risk of fistula
On going impact of trauma/PTSD
Sexual dysfunction
What are the psychological effects of FGM?
PTSD Anxiety Dperession Fear of intimacy Loss of trust Unresolved anger Flashbacks Nightmares
What are some risk factors of FGM?
An older sister or cousin have undergone FGM
The parents say they value the practice
Girl is withdrawn from PSHE
Level of society integration is also significant
What are some signs of imminent risk?
Girl is withdrawn from school for extended holiday
Visit from family elder
Something special is about to happen or becoming a woman soon
Forced marriage suspected or known then the risks of FGM should also be addressed
How can Dr’s make a difference to FGM
You can make a difference
Be sensitive, non judgemental
Be confident in asking straight forward questions, simple language
Woman may not view FGM as abuse
FGM is illegal and the law can be used to help families
