12. Healthcare workers and FGM

When asked about what they want from their healthcare workers, women survivors consistently say:

Please do not judge me

I need privacy and dignity

The culture of silence makes it hard for us to speak about what has happened

Be aware of the physical pain, infections and sexual relationship problems

I need a knowledgeable, empathetic and approachable health professional

I need to be able to make informed choices about my health

Please encourage me to ask questions and use language that I can understand

Understand the emotional pain.

Healthcare workers have a duty to work sensitively and in a non-judgmental way with those who have undergone FGM. No matter the particular circumstance that brings you into contact with them. Respect and dignity should be at the heart of your approach, treat everyone as an individual, use plain language and positivity.

Finally, you may be working with specific issues that arise as a result of FGM. These could be around complications associated with physical changes to the vagina, such as around obstetric practice, or it might be in providing specific and targeted mental health support, for example.

All care must be culturally competent. Remember that some women may come from a culture where FGM is seen as a hugely positive thing and is part of their identity, so to be confronted with a different opinion can be confusing, isolating and scary.

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