The medicalisation of female genital mutilation

In: Forced migration review, Issue 49

Abstract

The 'medicalisation' of female genital mutilation/cutting (FGM/C) refers to the act being performed by doctors or other members of the health profession. The phenomenon is neither new nor unknown. Such acts of FGM/C are usually paid for, sometimes at a high price, on the pretext of better quality or for safety reasons. The authors have carried out reconstructive surgery on women who have been subjected to FGM/C and been able to compare the consequences of so-called medicalised practices with cutting carried out by traditional practitioners. Medicine must not be used for harmful practices; furthermore, carrying out acts without a person's consent or against their wishes is a crime. The medicalisation of FGM/C is an absolute breach of ethics that affects and tarnishes the entire health-care community. For the last 25 years, medicine has helped us understand the reality of FGM/C and its consequences. This new understanding must serve the needs of women. Adapted from the source document.