Understanding the dilemma of de-infibulation for women living with female genital mutilation

Female genital mutilation (FGM) also known as female circumcision (FC) is a global and women's health issue that is of a particular concern to Australia due to an increasing migration of women and girls from countries where the practice is prevalent (World Health Organization (WHO 2011). It is a cultural practice which refers to a range of procedures intended at partial or total removal of the female genitalia for nontherapeutic reasons (Ball 2008). FGM involves the narrowing of the vaginal opening and presents a peculiar healthcare challenge to healthcare providers in western countries such as Australia who are unfamiliar with the practice. Studies have identified a knowledge gap among western healthcare providers caring for women living with female genital mutilation. Understanding the ordeal faced by circumcised women undergoing de-infibulation will bridge this gap particularly for the inexperienced healthcare nurses and midwives who may encounter these women in the course of care provision.