Have you been mutilated: What words should we use to talk to women about FGM

Female genital mutilation (FGM) is used to describe the practice of cutting of the female genitalia for non medical reasons. Health professionals including midwives, nurses and general practitioners frequently encounter women who have undergone FGM. It is suggested in several international papers that the word ‘mutilation’ may cause offence if used by practitioners in discussion with women who have undergone this procedure. The cultural beliefs surrounding FGM are deep-rooted, wide-ranging and multifaceted causing dissension amongst practising communities in the face of eradication of this practice. These cultural beliefs are similar regardless of the country in which FGM is practiced. I have cared for and talked to many pregnant women in the UK and Africa who have undergone FGM and being a person of African descent I am aware of the sensitive nature of this topic. I have developed the use of neutral terminology and native words when talking with women about FGM. This paper looks at the importance of using sensitive terms and words to address women who have undergone FGM and the communication skills which midwives can use to engage with women. For the purpose of this paper the term female genital cutting (FGC) will be used in place of FGM.