Female Genital Mutilation/Cutting

Female genital mutilation/cutting (FGM/C) refers to the partial or near-complete removal or alteration of female external genitalia. It is a centuries-old tradition in many parts of the world, and over 125 million women have undergone this ritual in 29 countries in parts of Africa, Asia, and the Middle East, and it has a long-standing history. FGM/C is mostly motivated by culture and encompasses a range of procedures designed to alter the female anatomy for purposes of marriageability and social acceptance. Most commonly performed between infancy and early teen years, the procedure offers no health benefits but may have serious psychological and medical consequences for girls and women. Obstetrical and gynecological complications are common and range from labor complications to infertility and chronic dyspareunia. Women’s healthcare providers practicing in the United States and abroad must be able to at least recognize, refer, and possibly manage patients who have undergone FGM/C. This chapter reviews the epidemiology, clinical examination, and WHO staging of FGM/C, as well as options for the management of sequelae.