Dyspareunia and Functioning Among Somali Women Who Have Experienced Female Genital Cutting

Female genital cutting (FGC) results in a higher risk for sexual issues in impacted women. This study examined this impact in a sample of 300 women identifying as Somali and living in the United States. FGC is highly prevalent in Somalia, with rates as high as 98%. Bilingual community researchers recruited participants from community and clinic spaces. Participants completed a survey using standardized measures and team-created questionnaires, in addition to a structured interview about their FGC history. Results indicated the most common sexual concern was dyspareunia (22%). Sexual problems were not universal; 18% reported they did not enjoy sex, 17% reported low sexual interest, 15% reported difficulty with orgasm, 12% reported anxiety about sex, and 9% reported arousal problems. Most participants with dyspareunia did not seek out medical or psychological intervention. The majority of participants who were infibulated were deinfibulated during labor and delivery. Deinfibulation before sexual intercourse and never being deinfibulated were associated with a higher risk of dyspareunia than never being infibulated. Deinfibulation was not associated with overall sexual function. Results indicate health care providers and therapists should assess FGC history and sexual concerns among patients born in countries that practice FGC. Patients may need education and guidance in regard to accessing evidence-based interventions for sexual problems.