This article examines a case study of a school nurse’s involvement with a family at risk of FGM. Although the children were safeguarded appropriately, opportunities were missed to support the family to address the psychological impact of FGM. Specialist services designed to work with communities where FGM is practiced exist around the UK but are few in number and have limited resources.
Profession: Health
Assessing and managing FGM in the practice. (Subscription to journal required)
Comfort Momoh MBE discusses female genital mutilation and the practice nurse’s role in identifying and providing care for victims and those at risk. Includes checklist.
Speaking with women about FGM (Video)
Journalist and broadcaster Susan Bookbinder talks with four women about how they would like to see professionals hold sensitive conversations about female genital mutilation (FGM), including what actions to take to safeguard vulnerable girls.
FGM Questionnaire for Health Professionals
This questionnaire was developed by Bolton NHS Foundation Trust to assess the likelihood that FGM has happened to a patient, their attitudes towards the practice, understanding of legislation and to assess the potential risk to girl children. It can be adopted by NHS Trusts to enable them to fulfil health professionals recording, reporting and safeguarding responsibilities.
eLearning to Improve Awareness and Understanding of FGM (Health)
The e-FGM educational programme has been developed by Health Education England e-Learning for Healthcare and is provided free to all healthcare professionals, including school nurses, practice nurses, health visitors and GPs.
Maternity guidelines for the care of women who have been affected by FGM
These guidelines have been produced to support the policy of asking all women at their booking appointment whether they have experienced any form of surgery to their genitals including female genital mutilation.
WHO guidelines on the management of health complications from FGM
WHO recommendations published in May 2016 aim to help health workers provide better care to the more than 200 million girls and women worldwide living with female genital mutilation. The recommendations focus on preventing and treating obstetric complications; treatment for depression and anxiety disorders; attention to female sexual health such as counselling, and the provision of information and education.
UCLH Peadiatric FGM Service
This is a dedicated monthly multidisciplinary clinic for girls under 18 years who have had, are suspected to have had, or may be at risk of FGM. We offer sensitive and appropriate care for affected children and young people. If you are worried a girl has undergone FGM, we recommend a medical is undertaken at the earliest point. Click download to download the referral form.
A systematic review of doctors’ experiences and needs to support the care of women with FGM. (Subscription to journal required)
The study aimed to examine the FGM experiences and educational needs of doctors with respect to FGM in low, middle and high-income countries. The goal was to identify the medical training and continuing professional development of doctors so that they can better care for women and advocate against the practice.
NHS Specialist Services for Female Genital Mutilation
The document provides a list of NHS Specialist services for survivors of Female Genital Mutilation. Women who have undergone Type 3 FGM can access de-infibulation services (opening up). The clinics provide services for both pregnant and non-pregnant women and some of the clinics also provide counselling and emotional support.