Female genital mutilation - An overview for forensic practitioners

Area of Science:

• Forensic Medicine
• Public Health
• Women's Health

Background:

• Female genital mutilation (FGM) encompasses procedures causing partial/total removal of external female genitalia or other deliberate injury for non-medical reasons.
• Over 200 million girls and women have undergone FGM, with over 3 million at risk annually, presenting diverse severity levels from clitoral removal to infibulation.
• FGM lacks medical benefits and is associated with significant physical and psychological complications, including infections, sexual dysfunction, obstetrical issues, and increased mortality.

Purpose of the Study:

• To inform forensic practitioners and pathologists about the anatomical features of FGM.
• To raise awareness of the medical and psychological side effects of FGM.
• To emphasize the importance of accurate case recording for resource allocation and prevention strategies.

Main Methods:

• Review of FGM procedures and their associated health consequences.
• Analysis of FGM prevalence and global distribution.
• Discussion of forensic implications and reporting requirements.

Main Results:

• FGM procedures, ranging from Type 1 to Type 3, result in varying degrees of tissue damage.
• Complications include psychological trauma, physical scarring, infections, sexual dysfunction, severe obstetrical problems (e.g., fistulas), and increased maternal/neonatal mortality.
• FGM is now a global issue due to migration, necessitating forensic awareness.

Conclusions:

• Forensic practitioners must recognize FGM's anatomical evidence and health impacts.
• Accurate documentation is vital for effective resource allocation and implementing preventive measures against FGM.
• Understanding FGM's medical and psychological sequelae is essential for comprehensive forensic examination and victim support.