Female Genital Cutting Circumcision Fgc

Overview

Female genital cutting (FGC), also called female genital mutilation (FGM) or 'circumcision', is when a girl's or woman's external genitals are partly or fully removed, injured, or changed for non-medical reasons. The external genitals are the vulva. FGC is done for cultural, social, or family reasons, not for health. It has no health benefits and can cause serious short- and long-term harm. It is recognized internationally as a human rights violation and is illegal in many countries.

It is estimated that over 200 million girls and women alive today have experienced FGC. It is most common in parts of Africa, the Middle East, and Asia, and in some communities around the world.

FGC can affect girls and women of any age, from infancy to adulthood. It is most often carried out on girls between infancy and age 15. It can affect people from communities where the practice happens, including people who have moved to other countries.

Symptoms

Common symptoms

• Some people have no ongoing symptoms, but check-ups and support are still important.
• Pain, bleeding, swelling, or infection after cutting.
• Difficulty passing urine or menstrual blood.
• Pain during sex, reduced sexual pleasure, or pain during pelvic exams.
• Scarring, cysts, or a narrowed opening.
• Flashbacks, anxiety, depression, shame, or relationship stress.

Symptoms in children

• Possible signs include crying or fear around toileting or bathing.
• Bleeding, pain, or swelling in the genital area.
• Trouble passing urine.
• Withdrawal, sleep problems, or fear of certain people or places.
• Not wanting to be examined or touched.

Symptoms in older adults

• Long-term pelvic pain, pain during sex, or difficulty with pelvic exams.
• Urinary or menstrual problems.
• Problems during pregnancy or childbirth.
• Emotional distress, anxiety, or depression.
• Scarring or cysts that may need care.

Causes

Main causes

• FGC is done for cultural, social, and family reasons, not medical reasons.
• Some communities believe it is part of tradition, cleanliness, or preparation for marriage. These beliefs do not make it safe.
• It is a form of violence against girls and women and a human rights violation. Family and community pressure can play a role.
• It is not caused by illness or by anything the person did.

Risk factors

• Being from a family or community where FGC is practiced.
• Pressure from relatives or community members.
• Gender inequality and lack of protection for girls.
• Migration or living in a community where the practice continues.
• Limited access to education and support services.

When to see a doctor

See a doctor urgently if:

• Heavy bleeding, severe pain, fever, or trouble passing urine.
• Signs of infection, such as spreading redness, swelling, or bad-smelling discharge.
• Pregnancy or childbirth concerns if you have had FGC.
• Thoughts of self-harm or a mental health crisis.
• If a child is in immediate danger, call your local emergency number.

Book a routine appointment if:

• You have experienced FGC and want to talk, even if you have no symptoms.
• You have pelvic pain, pain during sex, urinary problems, or menstrual problems.
• You are planning a pregnancy, are pregnant, or have questions about childbirth.
• You feel anxious, depressed, or affected by memories of FGC.
• You are worried about a child or someone else who may be at risk.
• You want to ask about specialist support or surgery options.

Diagnosis

FGC is not an illness, so it is not diagnosed in the usual way. A healthcare professional may ask about your health and history and, with your consent, do a gentle physical exam. They should explain each step and go at your pace. Diagnosis is not about blaming you. If a child is affected, safeguarding teams may be involved to keep them safe.

Tests that may be done

• No laboratory test is needed to recognize FGC. It is identified by history and, with consent, a gentle exam.
• Tests may be done to check for complications, such as a urine test or a sample to look for infection.
• Blood tests may be used if there is bleeding, infection, or other health concerns.
• A pregnancy test or pelvic ultrasound may be offered if needed.
• A healthcare provider may ask about mood and mental health to offer support.

What to expect at your appointment

You can ask for a female clinician, an interpreter, a chaperone, and to stop at any time. Exams can be adapted to your comfort. Ask questions before anything happens. Your health information is private, but clinicians may have a duty to protect children and vulnerable people. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider for your own care.

Treatment

Care focuses on safety, treating symptoms, emotional support, and your choices about surgery. There is no single 'cure' that reverses all effects, but good care can help with physical and emotional harm. You are in charge of your body and your decisions.

Self-care at home

• Use gentle hygiene and loose clothing if you have discomfort.
• Drink enough fluids and treat constipation with advice from a pharmacist or healthcare provider.
• Ask your healthcare provider or pharmacist about simple pain relief that is safe for you.
• Practice relaxation or grounding exercises when memories or anxiety feel strong.
• Ask for changes to make pelvic exams more comfortable, such as a smaller speculum or a different position.
• Connect with trusted friends, family, or support groups if you feel ready.

Medical treatments

Treatment depends on your symptoms. It may include care for infection, pain, urinary problems, scarring, and pregnancy or childbirth. Talking therapies and sexual health counselling can help with emotional distress. Specialist clinics can offer respectful exams and discuss surgery options. A qualified healthcare provider can explain what is safe for you. No specific medicine or dose is recommended here.

When is surgery considered?

Surgery may be an option for some women. Examples include deinfibulation, which means opening a scar to help with urine flow, sex, or childbirth, and reconstructive surgery. Not everyone needs or wants surgery. The choice is yours, and it should be done by trained specialists.

Living with this condition

Many people live full lives after FGC. You may need extra support around exams, sex, pregnancy, or reminders of what happened. You can decide when and whom to tell. Good care should respect your pace and your choices.

Lifestyle tips

• Build a trusted care team and ask for a female clinician or interpreter when you want one.
• Connect with support groups or counselling if talking helps.
• Learn about your rights and the support available where you live.
• Plan ahead for appointments and ask what changes can make exams easier.
• Use sleep, relaxation, and gentle movement to support your general health.

Diet and exercise

No special diet is needed for FGC. Balanced meals, regular movement, and good sleep support general health. If you have urinary or bowel problems, ask a healthcare provider for advice about fluids and fibre.

Mental health and emotional wellbeing

FGC can cause anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress, shame, or relationship stress. These are real and treatable. If you feel unsafe or have thoughts of self-harm, call your local emergency number or a local crisis service immediately. You are not alone, and support is available.

Prevention

Yes. FGC is preventable. Community education, laws, and protecting girls at risk all help. Families and communities can choose not to cut. Healthcare providers should never perform or support FGC.

Vaccines

There is no vaccine for FGC. Vaccines for other health concerns should be discussed with your healthcare provider.

Screening programmes

There is no screening test for FGC. Healthcare visits may include gentle questions and exams to offer support and check for complications.

Complications

If left untreated

• Long-term pain, scarring, cysts, or infection.
• Urinary and menstrual problems.
• Pain during sex and sexual difficulties.
• Pregnancy and childbirth complications.
• Emotional trauma, anxiety, depression, or post-traumatic stress.
• Social and relationship difficulties.

Long-term outlook

Many people live full, healthy lives with the right support. Symptoms can be managed, and emotional healing is possible. You deserve respectful care and do not have to face this alone.

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