Representation of female genital cosmetic surgery in the media: a systematic review

Female genital cosmetic surgery (FGCS) is performed, like other aesthetic procedures, for nonmedical reasons to alter genital appearance or function. However, it can be distinguished by unique ethical, psychological, and sexual health considerations. Although patients often cite aesthetic, sexual, functional, or psychological discomforts, broader social and cultural influences are key drivers of demand. This study aimed to examine the representation of FGCS in the media. This systematic review employed a hybrid deductive-inductive content analysis to examine media representations of FGCS, following PRISMA guidelines. A comprehensive search of 6 databases (PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus, PsycINFO, Embase, and Cochrane Library) was conducted for English-language studies (2000-2025). After removing duplicates, 545 related articles were identified. Finally, a total of 15 eligible studies that investigated the media's content related to FGCS were included in this review. The analysis revealed 6 predominant thematic domains: (1) justifications for FGCS, (2) presentation of FGCS results, (3) genitalia depiction, (4) FGCS warning, (5) marketing practice, and (6) quality evaluation. Our findings indicated that the media's content influences public perceptions about genitalia, sexuality, and femininity, and this has contributed, in part, to the rising demand for FGCS.