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Health Care Providers
What is Female Genital Cutting (FGC)?
Female genital cutting (FGC), sometimes called female circumcision or female genital mutilation, means cutting, removing, or sewing closed all or part of a girl’s or woman’s external genitals for no medical reason. FGC is sometimes incorrectly identified as a religious practice- it is not. However, it is often a part of the culture in countries where it is practiced. FGC has no health benefits and can cause long-term health problems. FGC is against the law in Michigan.
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Four main types of FGC
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Who is at risk?
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Possible indicators of FGC
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What are the risks?
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How can I help patients who are at risk for or have undergone FGC?
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Do pregnant women who have had FGC need special care?
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How do I counsel/communicate with a patient who experienced FGC?
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Why is FGC done?
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Why do many countries oppose FGC?
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FGC is against the law in Michigan
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Resources for more information
References:
- Female Genital Cutting: A Fact Sheet from the Office of Women’s Health; U.S. Dept. of Health & Human Services, www.womenshealth.gov/a-z-topics/female-genital-cutting; retrieved January 2018
- Khatna, Khafz or Female Genital Cutting; Sahiyo, www.sahiyo.com; retrieved April 2018.
- What Is Female Genital Mutilation (FGM?); Forward Youth; www.forwardyouth.org.uk; retrieved April 2018.
- Female Genital Mutilation Fact Sheet; World Health Organization (WHO); www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/female-genital-mutilation; retrieved September 2017.
- Michigan Compiled Laws; www.legislature.mi.gov retrieved October 2017.