Female Genital Mutilation Surgery

Definition

Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) is defined as "all procedures that involve partial or total removal of the external female genitalia, or other injury to the female genital organs for non-medical reasons". It includes:
- Excision: removal of the clitoris and the inner labia.
- Infibulation: involves the removal of all or part of the inner and outer labia, and usually the clitoris, and the fusion of the wound; a small hole is left for the passage of urine and menstrual blood. The wound on vulva will be open for the wedding (allowing intercourse) or childbirth.

Rate

The Haute Normandie area is the 2nd France region – after Ile de France – with the highest rate of Female Genital Mutilations, with nearly 5.000 women and little girl victims or future victims of excision.
The WHO (World Health Organization) estimates that 140 millions women and girls around the world have experienced it. Each year, 2 millions of girls may share the same fate...

Surgery Procedure

25 years ago, Dr Pierre Foldès, urologist, worked out a plastic surgery allowing the creation of a clitoris: clitoroplasty.
We can propose you this procedure, learnt directly from him, as well as a personal support with a multidisciplinary staff (sexologist, psychologist,...)
This surgery can be performed at every stage of your life, once you are 18. However no surgery can be performed for a minor girl (below 18.).
French Public Welfare System (Sécurité Sociale) will pay for this surgery.

All forms of Female Genital Mutilations are relevant to plastic surgery, as the surgery procedure is the same for all types of mutilations. Most women that experienced this surgery say that they feel a greater sexual well being, and above all, they can regain control of their body.

For any further information, you can call the Havre Unit of Sexual Mutilation Abolition Group (GAMS) : + 33 (0)6 30 36 42 42,
Or directly manage an appointment with Dr Jean-François Le Digabel, Ob/Gyn MD.