Female genital mutilation in high-income countries: knowledge and experience among health professionals

Female genital mutilation (FGM) is a cultural practice with numerous negative health consequences. Due to migration from countries where FGM is prevalent into high-income countries, there is increased awareness within non-practising communities, with emphasis on FGM's illegal nature and the negative impacts on women. It is therefore vital for health professionals to be knowledgeable to provide adequate patient care.

This review aimed to synthesise literature to report the understanding and experiences of health professionals caring for females affected by FGM in high-income countries.

A systematic search was conducted on three databases: Medline, Embase, and the Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature (CINAHL). Inclusion and exclusion criteria were applied to select the papers. Findings from included papers were synthesised using thematic synthesis.

Eight articles met the criteria. Four themes were generated: FGM knowledge, training, attitudes and caring for FGM patients.

Health professionals' knowledge and experiences of FGM tend to be varied. This review highlights the need of training for health professionals in high-income countries to strengthen their FGM knowledge.