Epidemiological surveillance study of female genital mutilation in the UK (2021)
This study is a Descriptive research regarding All FGM/C with the following characteristics:
Author(s): Hodes D, Ayadi O’Donnell N, Pall K,et al
FGM/C Type(s): All
Health area of focus: Medical symptoms and examination outcomes of FGM paedeatric patients.
Objective: The study objective was to describe cases of female genital mutilation (FGM) presenting to consultant paediatricians and sexual assault referral centres (SARCs),including demographics,medical symptoms,examination findings and outcome.
Study Population: Setting: All consultant paediatricians and relevant SARC leads across the UK and Ireland.Patients Under 16 years old with FGM.
Findings: The mean reported age was 3 years. Using the WHO classification of FGM,58% (n=60) had either type 1 or type 2,8% (n=8) had type 3 and 21% (n=22) had type 4. 13% (n=13) of the cases were not classified and none had piercings or labiaplasty. The majority,70% had FGM performed in Africa with others from Europe,Middle East and South-East Asia. There were few physical and mental health symptoms. Only one case resulted in a successful prosecution.There were low numbers of children presenting with FGM and in the 2 years there was only one prosecution. The findings may be consistent with attitude changes in FGM practising communities and those at risk should be protected and supported by culturally competent national policies
Geographical coverage
Region(s):Northern Europe
Country(ies):United Kingdom,Ireland