[Gynecologic and obstetric implications of female circumcision in Somalia]

Some historical and cultural notes on the traditional practice of female circumcision are presented, the various forms and features of the population of Somaliland being described. The complications of circumcision are illustrated, particularly its most mutilating form (infibulation) which can present to the observation of the gynaecologist, together with a summary description of some clinical cases. Finally, mention is made of the current and future outlook for the spread of this traditional mutilating practice.