Female genital mutilation
Be aware of this practice, its cultural sensitivities, and its implications for health
- By: Yemisi Akinmolayan, Comfort Momoh
Female genital mutilation (FGM), also referred to as female circumcision, is a cultural practice affecting approximately 100-140 million women worldwide, with at least 3 million new cases annually.1 The practice is widespread in many developing countries, particularly in Africa, Western Asia, and parts of the Middle East. Immigration to Britain of ethnic groups who practise female genital mutilation has led to increased awareness of the practice. The most severe form of female circumcision is known as infibulation and involves removal of the whole clitoris, labia minora, and the medial labia majora, with the lateral edges being sewn together covering the urethra and vagina, leaving only a small opening for urine and menstrual flow (fig 1).23
In the United Kingdom, it is estimated that 279 000 women have undergone female genital mutilation and that up to 24 000 girls under 15 are at risk of having the procedure done.45 Unfortunately, the stigma associated