Type Of Female Genital Mutilation Research Articles

Female Genital Mutilation in Ethiopia’s Afar Region: Patterning, Drivers, and Decision-Making

PurposeTo explore the patterning, practices, and drivers of female genital mutilation (FGM) in Ethiopia’s Afar region. MethodsThis article draws on mixed-methods research conducted in 2022 in 18 rural communities in three districts of Ethiopia’s Afar region. Survey data were collected from 1,022 adolescents and their caregivers. Qualitative interviews were conducted with approximately 270 adults and adolescents. ResultsThe survey found that FGM remains practically universal (97% of sampled adolescent girls), and infibulation remains the norm (87% of girls). Most adolescent girls and caregivers reported that FGM is required by religion and should continue. When queried about the main reason for FGM, however, most cited culture rather than religion. Female caregivers and adolescent girls were more likely to report that FGM has benefits than risks; the reverse was true for male caregivers. Qualitative evidence suggests that even girls who are not reported as infibulated generally, and that the social benefits of FGM––especially regarding controlling girls’ sexuality and facilitating their marriageability––are perceived to outweigh health risks. Where there are shifts in type of FGM, it is largely due to efforts of religious leaders who preach against infibulation and for “milder” types––and the growing scope of fathers to input into mothers’ FGM decision-making and advocate for less invasive types. DiscussionEliminating FGM requires focusing on contexts where the practice is most invasive and progress is not yet visible. Given complex intrahousehold and intragenerational dynamics, this will necessitate engaging whole communities with sustained multipronged approaches to shift social norms.

"A part of my life". A qualitative study about perceptions of female genital mutilation and experiences of healthcare among affected women residing in Sweden.

Female genital mutilation (FGM) is defined as all procedures involving partial or total removal of the external female genitalia, or other injuries to them for non-medical reasons. Due to migration, healthcare providers in high-income countries need to better understand the consequences of FGM. The aim of this study was to elucidate women's experiences of FGM, with particular focus on perceived health consequences and experiences of healthcare received in Sweden. A qualitative study was performed through face-to-face, semi-structured interviews with eight women who had experienced FGM in childhood, prior to immigration to Sweden. The transcribed narratives were analyzed using content analysis. Three main categories were identified : "Living with FGM", "Living with lifelong health consequences" and "Encounters with healthcare providers". The participants highlighted the motives behind FGM and their mothers' ambivalence in the decision process. Although the majority of participants had undergone FGM type 3, the most severe type of FGM, the lifelong health consequences were diverse. Poor knowledge about FGM, insulting attitude, and lack of sensitive care were experienced when seeking healthcare in Sweden. Our findings indicate that FGM is a complex matter causing a diversity in perceived health consequences in women affected. Increased knowledge and awareness about FGM among healthcare providers in Sweden is of utmost importance. Further, this subject needs to be addressed in the healthcare encounter in a professional way.

The comparison of sexual function in types I and II of female genital mutilation

BackgroundFemale genital mutilation has many sexual, physical, and psychological consequences. The present study aimed to examine the relationship between Female Genital Mutilation/Cutting (FGM/C), and Sexual Function among circumcised women in Sardasht City, Iran.”MethodsIn this present cross-sectional study, 197 women who were mutilated entered the study by simple random sampling from two healthcare centers in Sardasht, Iran. A gynecologist first performed a genital examination to identify the type of female genital mutilation of participants. Subsequently, Socio-demographic and FGM/C-related characteristics checklist and the female sexual function index questionnaire were completed by interview method. Data were analyzed using SPSS 23 software.ResultsType I and II of female genital mutilation were performed in 73.1 and 26.9% of the participants, respectively. The age range of performing female genital mutilation in type I and II of female genital mutilation was 4–10 years old in 67.4% and 71.1% respectively. Traditional practitioners/local women carried out the circumcision in all of the participants, and Sunnah/tradition was reported as the most common reason for doing this procedure. The average total score of FSFI index in type I and II of female genital mutilation was 23.5 ± 2.0 and 17.4 ± 2.39, respectively. In all domains of FSFI, women with type II of female genital mutilation obtained lower scores than women with type I.ConclusionCircumcised women have reduced scores in all domains of FSFI, and the severity of sexual dysfunction is related to the type of FGM/C. Considering the prevalence of female genital mutilation and its adverse effects, it is imperative to initiate cultural improvements through education and awareness. By educating and raising awareness among individuals about this issue, we can foster positive changes and address the problem effectively.

Postpartum depressive symptoms in women with female genital mutilation in Somalia

Objectives This study aimed to identify associated factors for postpartum depression (PPD) among women with female genital mutilation (FGM) in Somalia. Methods This was a cross-sectional study conducted between February and May 2021 in Somalia Mogadishu–Turkey Recep Tayyip Erdogan Training and Research Hospital, Mogadishu, Somalia. Mothers with any known chronic disease, or psychiatric disorders and who refused to participate were excluded from the study. The cutoff point for depression was defined as ≥13 points according to the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale. Results Out of 446 postpartum mothers, 267 (59.9%) had increased depressive symptoms in the early postpartum period. PPD scale scores of mothers who were very poor were significantly higher depression scores than their counterparts (p = .002). Education level, place of residence, occupational status, number of children, type of FGM, and the presence of perineal tear did not differ significantly between depressed and non-depressed groups. Conclusions Women with FGM had increased depressive symptoms in the early postpartum period in Somalia. In addition, women who had lower income had higher PPD scores than their counterparts. Further studies are needed to develop a deeper understanding of the relationships between FGM and PPD and its causes.

Postoperative Course of Reconstructive Procedures in FGM Type III-Proposal for a Modified Classification of Type III Female Genital Mutilation

Reconstruction after female genital mutilation (FGM) has developed from being merely a therapy for complications to addressing body perception and sexuality. However, evidence regarding a direct correlation between FGM and sexual dysfunction is scarce. The present WHO classification provides an imprecise grading system, which makes it difficult to compare present studies with treatment outcomes. The aim of this study was to develop a new grading system based on a retrospective study of Type III FGM, evaluating operative time and postoperative results. The extent of clitoral involvement, operative time of prepuce reconstruction and lack of prepuce reconstruction, and postoperative complications of 85 patients with FGM-Type III were retrospectively analyzed at the Desert Flower Center (Waldfriede Hospital, Berlin). Even though universally graded by the WHO, large differences in the degree of damage were found after deinfibulation. In only 42% of patients, a partly resected clitoral glans was found after deinfibulation. There was no significant difference in operative time when comparing patients who required prepuce reconstruction and patients who did not (p = 0.1693). However, we found significantly longer operative time in patients who presented with a completely or partly resected clitoral glans when compared to patients with an intact clitoral glans underneath the infibulating scar (p < 0.0001). Two of the 34 patients (5.9%) who had a partly resected clitoris required revision surgery, while none of the patients in whom an intact clitoris was discovered under the infibulation required revision. However, these differences in the complication rates between patients with and without a partly resected clitoris were not statistically significant (p = 0.1571). A significantly longer operative time was found in patients who presented with a completely or partly resected clitoral glans when compared with patients with an intact clitoral glans underneath the infibulating scar. Furthermore, we found a higher, though not significantly significant, complication rate in patients with a mutilated clitoral glans. In contrast to Type I and II mutilations, the presence of an intact or mutilated clitoral glans underneath the infibulation scar is not addressed in the present WHO classification. We have developed a more precise classification, which may serve as a useful tool when conducting and comparing research studies.

Female Circumcision and Sexual Satisfaction among Iranian Kurdish Women

Background: There is contradictory evidence about the relationship between female circumcision and sexual function and satisfaction, which may be rooted in cultural and social beliefs and the different types of genital mutilation/circumcision (GM/C). Objective: The present study aimed to compare the sexual satisfaction among Iranian Kurdish women with and without GM/C. Method: This cross-sectional study was conducted on 310 women with and without GM/C aged 18-45 years, referred to the health centers of Mahabad, Iran, in 2020, using the convenience sampling method. After completing the informed consent form by the participants, the demographic and obstetric characteristics and Larson sexual satisfaction questionnaires were completed. The collected data were analyzed using SPSS21 software, and Chi-square and ANCOVA tests were used. Results: The mean (SD) score of sexual satisfaction was 87.10 (6.15) and 86.99 (4.44) among women with and without GM/C, respectively. After controlling the effect of confounding variables, no significant difference was observed between the two groups. The majority of women in both groups (91.6% in women with type I genital mutilation and 92.9% in women without GM/C) had moderate sexual satisfaction and there was no significant difference between the two groups in terms of sexual satisfaction levels. Conclusion: The results indicated no correlation between sexual satisfaction and type I female genital mutilation, which may be due to the limited area of genital injury, and the individual and social acceptance of this practice. A similar study design in other populations with different types of female genital mutilation is recommended.

Gender, migration and violence among third country nationals accessing the sexual health clinic in Malta.

In 2020, the number of displaced people worldwide reached 41.3 million (IOM, 2020). Among them, are many migrants and refugees at risk of sexual and gender-based violence (SGBV). Healthcare providers have a key role to play in identifying migrant victims/survivors of violence. This paper seeks to assess STIs prevalence, sexual health and sexual violence among third country nationals (TCNs) attending the GUC in Malta. This is a mixed methods study carried out at the Genitourinary Clinic (GUC), which is the only public sexual health clinic in Malta. Demographic data, sexual history and diagnoses of patients attending the GUC between January 2018 and December 2019 were collected and retrospectively analysed. A SGBV risk assessment was performed through a semi-structured questionnaire. In the 24-month study period, a total of 12 654 patients accessed the GUC in Malta. Demographic data were collected on age, gender, nationality, marital status and sexual orientation. 16.4% (n = 2064) of these were extra-European migrants, predominantly male. 80 different nationalities were recorded, with the 5 most common being Nigerian, Filipino, Libyan, Syrian and Brazilian. The average age was 32.6 years. Over 110 sex workers were visited at the GUC in the study period - 20 were foreign, primarily from China. The presence of a 'massage parlour owner' during consultation, lack of control over passports and other factors were identified as warning signs of trafficking. 5 cases of sexual violence and forced prostitution involving girls from Sub-Saharan Africa and, in 2 cases, boys recently arrived in Malta by boat, were encountered. 6 African women accessing the service exhibited a type of female genital mutilation (FGM). Migration, sexual health and SGBV overlap in important ways. Further research and training in SGBV and migration in the healthcare setting and awareness-raising about existing services among the migrant population are required.

Prevalence and associated factors of Female genital mutilation among reproductive age women’s of Wolayita Zone, Southern Ethiopia: a cross-sectional study

Background : Female genital mutilation (FGM) is estimated to have been practiced on at least 200 million girls and women in 30 countries around the world. Clitoridoctomy is the most common type of FGM in Ethiopia. Objectives : The aim of the study was to assess the magnitude of Female Genital Mutilation and associated factors among women’s of Wolayita zone. Methods : A community-based quantitative cross-sectional study was used. Face-to-face interviews with prepared questionnaires were used to collect data. SPSS version 20 software was used to analyze the data. The prevalence of FGM was determined using descriptive statistics. The researchers utilized a bivariate and multivariate logistic regression model to find independent determinants of FGM. Result : 296 women were undergone FGM out of a total of 333, indicating that FGM is prevalent in the research area (88.9%). Age (AOR-1.86, 95% CI: 0.42-0.98) and hyperactivity (AOR: 14.595, 95% CI: 3.391-6.807) were all independently linked to FGM. Conclusion : An integrated effort administrative and surrounding community intervention to be initiated to alleviate FGM practices through empowering women, discouraging risky factors like traditions; and sensitizing parents, community members and the public focusing on the rejecting of FGM.

Bein Bahrain1: Representation and Local Situation: Female Circumcision in Egypt from a Cross-Cultural Perspective

Representation, which is affected by global discourse about female circumcision, does not reflect the reality of the practice. This study focuses on female genital mutilation (FGM) in Egypt, particularly the gap between the representation of female circumcision and the local situation. Applying description design and based on the regional context, the study sheds light on problems pertaining to the representation of female circumcision according to two dimensions. The first dimension concerns data representation of female circumcision from a cross-cultural perspective and the second dimension examines female circumcision with reference to the film Bein Bahrain. This study aims to contribute to research that provides a space for dialogue in relation to the cultural backgrounds of each region and to identify the policies that are appropriate for each region. It was found that there are treatments in the world that are not dissimilar to FGM. However, these treatments are not considered concerning in the same way that FGM by the United Nations. Thus, in addition to the four types of FGM classified by the World Health Organization (WHO), there are two types of female circumcision based on implementation: First World implementation and Third World implementation. Furthermore, it became clear that the media representation which promotes a zero-tolerance policy does not reflect the reality of FGM in Egypt. The study concludes that there is an urgent need to reconsider the zero-tolerance policy to protect the lives of many girls.

Female genital mutilation (FGM) in Somaliland – why is change so slow?

Female genital mutilation (FGM) is defined as any procedure involving the alteration or excision of external female genitalia for no medical reason. Somaliland has among the highest prevalence rates of FGM globally. In this article we describe how the Civil Society Organisation (CSO) ‘Network against female genital mutilation in Somaliland’ (NAFIS) has approached the challenge to reduce the high FGM prevalence. From its start in 2006, NAFIS has developed a multifaceted program to reach the overall goal: the elimination of all forms of FGM in Somaliland. Alone among the group of CSOs in the network, NAFIS introduced in its activities medical care and counselling for women who suffer from the consequences of FGM. From 2011 and onwards, thousands of women have been relieved of their FGM-related health complications and participated in counselling sessions at project centres. Shortly after this visit they have been invited to participate in community group meetings to share their experiences with other women who also have received FGM care and counselling, and other community members. The aim of the article is to describe this model of work - combining FGM care and counselling with community dialogues. The article is basically descriptive, using the authors’ own observations and encounters with project clients and staff over eight years. We have also used findings from three Master's theses on aspects of the process, and from other small scale studies to highlight people’s understanding, experiences and opinions in a context of an on-going health intervention. A lesson learnt from NAFIS project is that it has helped to open up communicative spaces in community dialogues where experiences are shared and understanding created of the harm caused by FGM, without the habitual stigma and shame. We discuss this process in a context of behavioural change theories. A major challenge during the process has been to involve men in the project’s FGM information and counselling activities. The role of nurses/midwives, being the first to meet women with FGM complications, is also discussed and the need emphasised to strengthen capacity of this category of health workers. One type of FGM gaining in usage is the poorly defined sunna, the health risks of which are unclear.

Prevalence and associated factors of Female Genital Mutilation among reproductive age women’s of Wolayita Zone, Southern Ethiopia: A cross-sectional study

Background: Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) is estimated to have been practiced on at least 200 million girls and women in 30 countries around the world. Clitoridoctomy is the most common type of FGM in Ethiopia. Objectives: The aim of the study was to assess the magnitude of Female Genital Mutilation and associated factors among women’s of Wolayita zone. Methods: A community-based quantitative cross-sectional study was used. Face-to-face interviews with prepared questionnaires were used to collect data. SPSS version 20 software was used to analyze the data. The prevalence of FGM was determined using descriptive statistics. The researchers utilized a bivariate and multivariate logistic regression model to find independent determinants of FGM. Result: 296 women were undergone FGM out of a total of 333, indicating that FGM is prevalent in the research area (88.9%). Age (AOR-1.86, 95% CI: 0.42-0.98) and support to reduce sexual due to hyperactivity (AOR: 14.595, 95% CI: 3.391-6.807) were all independently linked to FGM. Conclusion: An integrated effort administrative and surrounding community intervention to be initiated to alleviate FGM practices through empowering women, discouraging risky factors like traditions; and sensitizing parents, community members and the public focusing on the rejecting of FGM.

Prevalence and associated factors of female genital mutilation among reproductive age womens of Damot Gale Woreda, Wolaita Zone, Southern Ethiopia: A cross-sectional study, 2018

Female genital mutilation (FGM) is estimated to have been practiced on at least 200 million girls and women in 30 countries around the world. Clitoridoctomy is the most common type of FGM in Ethiopia. The aim of the study was to assess the magnitude of Female Genital Mutilation and associated factors among women’s in Damot Gale Woreda of Wolayita zone. A quantitative community-based cross-sectional study was used. Face-to-face interviews with prepared questionnaires were used to collect data. SPSS version 20 software was used to analyze the data. The prevalence of FGM was determined using descriptive statistics. The researchers utilized a bivariate and multivariate logistic regression model to find independent determinants of FGM. 296 women were circumcised out of a total of 333, indicating that FGM is prevalent in the research area (88.9%). Mother education (AOR: 0.454, 95% CI: 0.209-0.984), age (AOR-1.86, 95% CI: 0.42-0.98)), knowledge that FGM causes health problems (AOR: 0.356, 95% CI: 0.145-0.877), and support for tradition (AOR: 14.595, 95% CI: 3.391-6.807) were all independently linked to FGM. Prevalence of FGM was associated with age, education, knowledge of health problems and tradition. Key words: Associated factors, female genital mutilation (FGM), prevalence, Wolayita zone.

Impact of introduction of the anti-female genital mutilation law on the practice of female genital mutilation in Garissa County, Kenya

Background: Female genital mutilation (FGM), is a social traditional practice performed by cutting parts of the external female genitalia. Garissa county in north eastern Kenya has the highest prevalence of FGM in Kenya at 94%. This practise was illegalised in Kenya in 2011. The aim of the study was to assess the successes of anti-FGM programs in Garissa County.Methods: This was a cross sectional study involving 108 participants of both genders and different age groups. Questionnaires were used in data collection. Obtained data was analyzed using SPSS version 25. Chi square was used to compare characteristics between female participants who had undergone FGM and participants not circumcised. Results: Of the 108 participants, 53.7% were females. The median age of participants was 23 years [Interquartile range (IQR])15-40]. The prevalence of FGM was 62% with the mean age at circumcision being 8.34 years (SD=2.69 years). Being of Muslim faith was associated with practice of FGM (p&lt;0.001). There was high level of awareness of the anti-FGM law among youths at 84%. Two thirds of participants did not support FGM. Excision was the main type of FGM practiced. Among those circumcised, 14.7% were circumcised by trained nurses.Conclusions: Introduction of the anti-FGM law, and its advocacy by NGOs has led to a reduction in the practice of FGM in Garissa county. There is an increase in the medicalization of FGM in Garissa with evidence of the practice going underground. This study recommends NGOs to have a clearer focus on the method chosen for use in advocating for the abandonment of FGM.

Female Genital Mutilation: Knowledge and Skills of Health Professionals.

Background: Female genital mutilation (FGM) is any process that injures female genitals for non-medical reasons and is a violation of women’s human rights. An important number of women from countries where FGM is performed are arriving to Western countries. Health professionals are important for detecting cases of FGM. No surveys to assess knowledge, attitudes and practices on FGM among healthcare professionals has been conducted in Castilla la Mancha (Spain) until now. Methods: The main goal of the study is assessing knowledge, attitudes and perceptions of healthcare professionals in relation to FGM. A cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted based on self-administered online surveys to nurses, midwives, family doctors, pediatricians, obstetrics and gynecologists. Results: In total, 1168 professionals answered the surveys. Just 13.9% indicated that they had received training in FGM, however just 10.7% correctly identified the three types of FGM, 10.7% the countries where it is usually practiced, 33.9% knew the legislation in Spain and only 4.4% found a case of FGM during their professional practice. Regarding the knowledge about protocols, 8.64% of the sample indicated to know one of them. Conclusion: The present study demonstrate that it is necessary to improve the training and awareness of healthcare professionals related to FGM in Castilla la Mancha.

Towards characterization of Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) in rural Nigeria.

Female genital mutilation (FGM) is a public health challenge and seems to be secretly practiced in some rural communities, despite the ban in Nigeria. The study aimed to identify the activities that are involved in FGM, type(s) of FGM practiced and the knowledge of health implications of FGM among rural community members in Ebonyi State, Nigeria. We employed exploratory design using qualitative technique. In-depth interviews were conducted with 44 adult (18 years and older) volunteers in four rural communities in Ebonyi State, Nigeria. After thematic analysis using NVivo 11 Pro software, eight sub-themes emerged, among which are: types of FGM practiced, seasons for FGM, FGM by health workers and community leaders, punishment for refusing FGM and knowledge of health implications of FGM. Findings show that FGM is more like a process than just an act, and type most practiced in the study area is Type 1. Circumcisers are health workers and women leaders. Knowledge of health implications of FGM was found to be low among those interviewed. Based on the findings, we concluded that FGM is still practiced in some rural communities in Nigeria, maybe because of poor knowledge of health implications of FGM.

A systematic review and meta-analysis of the consequences of female genital mutilation on maternal and perinatal health outcomes in European and African countries

IntroductionKey knowledge gaps remain to improve reproductive health outcomes for millions of women living with female genital mutilation (FGM). We aimed to update previous reviews and quantify more rigorously maternal...

Female genital mutilation (FGM): Is it still an existing problem in Egypt?

BackgroundFemale Genital Mutilation (FGM) is one of those traditional practices whose origin can be traced back to antiquity. The worst types of FGM are practiced in Sudan, Egypt and Nigeria. The international movement against FGM gained momentum in the past two decades, and attempts were made to increase public awareness of the procedure and its complications. In addition, laws were passed in Egypt to criminally charge practitioners who perform FGM. ObjectivesThe aim of this study was to describe frequency, prevalence, complications of FGM and awareness of the women at the clinic visit about the latest update (2016) of the Egyptian law that criminalizes it. MethodologyThis was a cross sectional study of women in their childbearing years (18–45) who attended the Gynecology and Obstetrics outpatient clinics at Fayoum University hospitals between January 1st and December 31st, 2018. After giving their consent, one hundred women attending the clinic received a medical examination and structured interview related to their views and plans regarding FGM of female children. ResultsSixty two percent of women participants reported that they had been circumcised. In 88% of cases, the participant's mother was the person who made the decision to have their daughter circumcised. The most common type of circumcision reported was type II, in 86% of cases. Regarding intent to have a female child circumcised, 32% reported that they would have their own daughter circumcised. ConclusionDespite Egyptian law that criminalizes FGM, the know potential for serious complications of the procedure, including death, and the efforts of governmental, non-governmental, and international organizations to combat the use of FGM, one third of the women interviewed still planned to have their daughter circumcised.

Effects of clitoral reconstruction for female genital mutilation on perinatal outcomes: A retrospective case-control study

ObjectivesTo investigate the perinatal outcomes of women with a history of female genital mutilation (FGM) who underwent clitoral reconstruction (CR) compared with women with FGM who did not undergo CR. Material and methodsRetrospective case-control study at Angers University Hospital, between 2005 and 2017. Inclusion criteria: pregnant women >18 years who underwent CR after FGM. Only the first subsequent delivery after CR was included. Each woman with CR was matched for age, ethnicity, FGM type, parity, and gestational age at the time of delivery with two women with FGM who did not undergo CR during the same period of time. At birth, the main outcomes were the need for episiotomy and having an intact perineum after delivery. Results84 women were included (28 in the CR group; 56 in the control group). In the CR group, patients required significantly fewer episiotomies (5/17[29.4 %]) compared to the control group (28/44[63.6 %], p = 0.02), even after excluding operative vaginal deliveries (2/13[15.4 %] vs 21/36[58.3], p < 0.01). CR reduces the risk of episiotomy (aOR = 0.15, 95 %CI [0.04−0.56]; p < 0.01) after adjusting on the infant weight and the need for instrumental delivery.In the CR group, 47 % of the patients had an intact perineum after delivery, compared to 20.4 % in the control group (p = 0.04). CR increases the odds of having an intact perineum at birth by 3.46 times (CI95 %[1.04–11.49]; p = 0.04). ConclusionCR after FGM increases the chances of having an intact perineum after delivery by 3.46 times and reduces the risk of episiotomy by 0.15 times compared to women with FGM who did not underwent CR.

Is female genital mutilation associated with eclampsia? Evidence from a nationally representative survey data

BackgroundStudies have shown the impact of female genital mutilation (FGM), especially infibulation (WHO type III), on reproductive health, and adverse obstetric outcomes like postpartum haemorrhage and obstructed labour. However, whether an association exists with maternal hypertensive complication is not known. The present study sought to investigate the role of the different types of FGM on the occurrence of eclampsia.MethodsThe study used data from the 2006 Demographic and health survey of Mali. The proportion of eclampsia in women with each type of FGM and the unadjusted and adjusted odds ratios (OR) were calculated, using women without FGM as reference group. Unadjusted and adjusted OR were also calculated for women who underwent infibulation compared to the rest of the population under study (women without FGM and women with FGM type I, II, and IV).ResultsIn the 3997 women included, the prevalence of infibulation was 10.2% (n = 407) while 331 women did not report FGM (8.3%). The proportion of women reporting signs and symptoms suggestive of eclampsia was 5.9% (n = 234).Compared with the absence of female genital mutilation and adjusted for covariates, infibulation was associated with eclampsia (aOR 2.5; 95% CI:1.4–4.6), while the association was not significant in women with other categories of FGM. A similar aOR was found when comparing women with infibulation with the pooled sample of women without FGM and women with the other forms of FGM.ConclusionThe present study suggests a possible association between infibulation and eclampsia. Future studies could investigate this association in other settings. If these findings are confirmed, the possible biological mechanisms and preventive strategies should be investigated.

Obstetric Perineal Lacerations in Women With Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) [11G

INTRODUCTION: To evaluate whether or not women, who have undergone FGM III, have an increased rate of second degree and higher obstetric perineal lacerations than a control group of similar patients. METHODS: For this retrospective chart review, we searched the electronic medical record (EMR) for patients speaking Somali, Arabic, Kurdish, Swahili, and French, who delivered at the University of Louisville Hospital from April 10, 2016 through August 10, 2017. We then entered baseline characteristics and delivery details into a secure database. A total of 110 patients were included. We looked at type of FGM, mode of delivery, rates of assisted delivery and primary cesarean section, types of perineal lacerations, and whether or not defibulation was performed. RESULTS: The baseline characteristics had several significant differences between the controls (n=84), FGM II (n=11), and FMG III (n=15) patients. Most strikingly, the FGM III population was 93% nulliparous. We controlled for this in our analysis with logistic regression models. The odds ratios (OR) of a second degree or higher perineal laceration comparing FGM III to controls (OR 5.06, 0.87-53.84) was not significant (p=0.0687). After logistic regression was applied controlling for body mass index, nulliparity, and assisted delivery, there was no increased risk of laceration in women with FGM III (AOR 1.06, CI 0.11-10.35, p=0.9571). We found that we correctly followed the standard of care and defibulated 89% (8/9) of women with FGM III that underwent vaginal delivery. CONCLUSION: Women with FGM III did not appear to have an increased risk of second degree and higher perineal lacerations.