Female genital mutilation: what every paediatrician should know

Area of Science:

• Pediatrics
• Global Health
• Public Health

Background:

• Female genital mutilation (FGM) is a harmful practice predominantly performed on children.
• FGM has severe, lifelong physical and psychological health consequences.
• Global migration has made FGM a worldwide public health concern.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the health aspects of FGM.
• To guide pediatricians in managing children affected by FGM.
• To increase awareness and understanding of FGM among healthcare professionals.

Main Methods:

• Literature review summarizing current knowledge on FGM.
• Focus on health impacts and clinical management strategies.
• Discussion of identification, classification, and trends in FGM practice.

Main Results:

• FGM offers no health benefits and causes extensive, lifelong harm.
• Information on FGM is limited by secrecy and lack of research.
• Pediatricians are crucial for FGM detection and prevention.

Conclusions:

• Pediatricians must be knowledgeable about FGM's health impacts and clinical management.
• Addressing FGM requires global collaboration and increased research.
• Early detection and intervention by pediatricians can mitigate FGM's harm.