Guideline No. 395-Female Genital Cutting

Abstract

Objectives: To decrease the likelihood that the practice of female genital cutting (FGC) be continued in the future and to improve the care of girls and women who have been subjected to FGC or who are at risk by providing (1) information intended to strengthen knowledge and understanding of the practice, (2) information regarding the legal issues related to the practice, (3) guidance for the management of its obstetrical and gynaecological complications, and (4) guidance on the provision of culturally competent care to girls and women affected by FGC.

Options: Strategies for the primary, secondary, and tertiary prevention of FGC and its complications.

Outcomes: The short- and long-term consequences of FGC.

Intended users: Health care providers delivering obstetrical and gynaecological care.

Target population: Women from countries where FGC is commonly practised and Canadian girls and women from groups who may practise FGC for cultural or religious reasons.

Evidence: Published literature was retrieved through searches of PubMed, CINAHL, and the Cochrane Library in September 2010 using appropriate controlled vocabulary (e.g., Circumcision, Female) and key words (e.g., female genital mutilation, clitoridectomy, infibulation). Searches were updated and incorporated in the guideline revision December 2018.

Validation methods: The quality of evidence in this document was rated using the criteria described in the Report of the Canadian Task Force on Preventive Health Care.

Benefits, harms, and costs: There are no anticipated harms or costs to health care facilities with implementation of this guideline. Benefits may include a greater willingness of women living with FGC to seek timely care.

Summary statements: RECOMMENDATIONS.

Keywords: adolescent; circumcision, female; gynaecologic care; pregnancy.