Foreign bodies as a complication of female genital mutilation

Abstract

Female genital mutilation has been practised in different cultures through centuries primarily in Africa but also in parts of Asia and America. Traditionally people without any medical training perform the mutilation with no respect for basic hygienic principles. The procedure has not changed during the years and the complication rate remains high with significant mortality related to the mutilation. A great variety of complications have been reported. We report an unusual complication: a cystic structure containing stones isolated from the area of the clitoris. The patient has suffered from these foreign bodies for almost 25 years. (excerpt)