Abstract
Female genital mutilation (FGM), also referred to as female genital cutting (FGC), has become the subject of an intense debate exposing tensions between varying cultural values about bodies and sexuality. These issues are brought to the fore in settings where professionals provide sexual counselling to young circumcised women and girls in Western, multicultural societies. This article is based on interviews and focus group discussions with professionals in social and healthcare services. The aim of this study was to examine how professionals reflect upon and talk about sexuality and the promotion of sexual wellbeing in young circumcised women and girls. Policy documents guide their obligations, yet they are also influenced by culture-specific notions about bodies and sexuality and what can be called “the FGM standard tale”. The study found that professionals showed great commitment to helping the girls and young women in the best possible way. Their basic starting point, however, was characterised by a reductionist focus on the genitalia’s role in sexuality, thus neglecting other important dimensions in lived sexuality. In some cases, such an attitude may negatively affect an individual’s body image and sexual self-esteem. Future policy making in the field of sexual health among girls and young women with FGC would benefit from taking a broader holistic approach to sexuality. Professionals need to find ways of working that promote sexual wellbeing in girls, and must avoid messages that evoke body shame or feelings of loss of sexual capacity among those affected by FGC.
Highlights
Female genital mutilation (FGM), referred to as female genital cutting (FGC), has become the subject of intense debate, exposing tensions between varying cultural values about bodies and sexuality
Future policy making in the field of sexual health among girls and young women with FGC would benefit from taking a broader holistic approach to sexuality
Professionals need to find ways of working that promote sexual wellbeing in girls, and must avoid messages that evoke body shame or feelings of loss of sexual capacity among those affected by FGC
Summary
Female genital mutilation (FGM), referred to as female genital cutting (FGC), has become the subject of intense debate, exposing tensions between varying cultural values about bodies and sexuality. FGC is cherished as a meaningful intervention among women in many groups upholding the practice,[1,2,3] yet it is perceived as unacceptable and unlawful in Western countries receiving immigrants from regions where FGC is customary. This poses specific challenges for professionals in these countries providing care and counselling to girls with FGC. The purpose of this study was to examine how professionals in
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