Ask about FGM
FGM is illegal in the UK, but remains prevalent. This how to suggests how to ask about it sensitively.
Last updated
on 15.03.2018
Before
- Read the fact sheet on FGM
- Read the Government guidance, attached
- Develop your own pathway (see the DOTW shared pathway)
- Be aware of countries of high prevalence (see map)
The prevalence map focuses only on Africa and part of the Middle East. However, UNFPA (link to webpage below) lists the following as countries where FGM is practiced:
- Asia: communities in India, Indonesia, Malaysia, Pakistan and Sri Lanka;
- Middle East: Oman, the United Arab Emirates, Yemen, Iraq, Iran, the State of Palestine and Israel;
- Eastern Europe: Georgia and the Russian Federation;
- South America: Columbia, Ecuador, Panama and Peru;
- Among diaspora populations from areas where the practice is common including Australia, Canada, New Zealand, the United States, the United Kingdom and other European countries.
- Sensitively broach the topic of FGM
- Try to normalise the conversation, explaining it is something that GPs asked routinely
- Explain these practices can cause many complications in pregnancy / childbirth and therefore it is important you know if she has been circumcised to ensure delivery of safe/effective care
- Use a sensitive line of questioning with value neutral terms understandable to the woman, such as:
- “Have you been closed?”
- “Were you circumcised?”
- “Have you been cut down there?”
- FGM in under 18s must be reported to the Police
- Familiarise yourself with the legal guidance attached in the Government document
- Refer to local clinic (see link to Department of Health list of NHS FGM clinics)
- If a young person is at risk it is a Safeguarding issue
-
Department of Health List of NHS FGM Clinics
-
Multi-agency statutory guidance on female genital mutilation
-
United Nations: Frequently Asked Questions on FGM
During Consultation
Approach asking about FGM sensitively in a female from a prevalent country. Ensure you have an interpreter if needed, they are alone and in a confidential space.
Mental health
