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Female genital cutting (FGM)

Also called: Female genital cutting, FGM

Cutting or removal of external female genitals, which can cause pain, infections, and childbirth problems. Care and repair are available.

HelpSpecialized clinics

Overview

FGM can cause pain, infections, urinary problems, painful sex, and childbirth complications.

Specialized clinics offer care and, for some, reconstructive surgery.

Symptoms

Common signs:

  • Pain or urinary problems

Less common

  • Painful sex
  • Infections

When to get medical care

Call 911This isn't an emergency by itself. Call 911 for trouble breathing, chest pain, or fainting.
Get care todayNew or worse symptoms, or symptoms with fever.
See a doctor soonSymptoms that last or keep coming back.

Causes

Cultural practice.

Does it spread or run in families?

  • It isn't contagious. You can't catch it from someone else.

Who is more likely to get it

  • Girls from some countries where it is practiced: Highest risk

Possible complications

Diagnosis

A clinician asks about your symptoms and may order tests.

The exam

A physical exam.

Treatment

Treatment depends on the cause and how severe it is.

Self-care

  • Find a clinician experienced in FGM care
  • Tell your prenatal care team

Which doctor treats this

  • Start with your primary care provider (family doctor or internist).
  • They may send you to a gynecologist (OB-GYN).

Children, pregnancy, and older adults

  • Pregnancy: Plan ahead for delivery.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

  • If you're pregnant or planning to be, tell your prenatal provider about this condition.
  • Don't start or stop any medicine on your own. Some are safe in pregnancy and some need to be changed.
  • Ask before taking any pain reliever. The FDA advises avoiding ibuprofen and naproxen after 20 weeks unless your doctor says to.
  • Breastfeeding: Most medicines are fine, but ask. The NIH LactMed database lists what's known about each one.

Outlook

Care and support improve health and well-being.

Getting ready for your visit

Bring a list of your symptoms and medicines.

What to bring

  • A list of your medicines and supplements
  • Notes on when symptoms started and what makes them better or worse

Questions to ask

  • What's causing this?
  • What treatment do you recommend?

Research studies

Research studies test new ways to find and treat health problems. Some are looking for volunteers. Talk with your doctor before joining one.

Search ClinicalTrials.gov for studies on Female genital cutting (FGM)

Sources

Last updated 2026-11-12.