Reconstructive Surgery for Female Genital Mutilation Starts Sexual Functioning in Sudanese Woman: A Case Report

• DOI: 10.1111/jsm.12286
• Publication Date: 2013-07-30T17:54:31Z
• Authors: Atif B.E. Fazari; Rigmor C. Berg; Wafaa A. Mohammed; Enas B. Gailii; Khalifa Elmusharaf
• Keywords: Adult; Sexual Behavior; Genitalia, Female; Plastic Surgery Procedures; 16. Peace & justice; 3. Good health; 03 medical and health sciences; 0302 clinical medicine; 5. Gender equality; Circumcision, Female; Humans; Female; Sexuality

ABSTRACT

Introduction Female genital mutilation (FGM) involves the partial or complete removal of the external female genitalia and/or other injury to the female genital organs whether for cultural or other nontherapeutic reasons.

Aims The study aims to describe the method of and findings from reconstructive surgery for FGM victims.

Methods We present a case of a 24-year-old Sudanese female, who had undergone ritual FGM type III as a young girl. She had suffered from a large, vulval mass for the last 6 years and came to the clinic because of apareunia. We performed mass excision and reconstructive surgery of the mutilated genital tissue.

Results The giant mass was successfully removed. Remaining genital tissues were approximated and sutured, with hemostasis assured for the reconstructed organs on each side.

Conclusion Reconstructive surgery for women who suffer sexual consequences from FGM is feasible, with a high degree of client acceptance and satisfaction. It restores some of women's natural genital anatomy, and offers the potential for improved female sexuality.