Effects of FGM

There are no health benefits to FGM and it can cause serious harm, including:

• constant pain
• pain and/or difficulty having sex
• repeated infections, which can lead to infertility
• bleeding, cysts and abscesses
• problems passing urine or incontinence
• depression , flashbacks and self-harm
• problems during labour and childbirth, which can be life-threatening for mother and baby

Some girls die from blood loss or infection as a direct result of the procedure.

FGM and sex

FGM can make it difficult and painful to have sex. It can also result in reduced sexual desire and a lack of pleasurable sensation.

Talk to your GP or another healthcare professional if you have sexual problems that you feel may be due to FGM, as they can refer you to a special therapist who can help.

Insome cases, a surgical procedure called a deinfibulation (see below) may be recommended, which can alleviate and improve some symptoms.

FGM and pregnancy

Somewomen with FGM may find it difficult to become pregnant, and those who do conceive can have problems in childbirth.

If you're expecting a baby, your midwife should ask you at your antenatal appointment if you've had FGM. It's important to tell your midwife if you think this has happened to you, so they can arrange appropriate care for you and you baby.

FGM and mental health

FGM can be an extremely traumatic experience that can cause emotional difficulties throughout life, including;

• depression
• anxiety
• flashbacks to the time of the cutting
• nightmares and other sleep problems

In some cases, women may not remember having the FGM at all, especially if it was performed when they were an infant.

Talk to your GP or another healthcare professional if you're experiencing emotional or mental health problems that may be a result of FGM. Help and support is available.