Womens' experiences of living with genital mutilation : a literature review

Sammanfattning: Background  Female genital mutilation refers to procedures where the external female genitalia are either partially or entirely removed. It is estimated that on a global scale more than 200 million girls and women alive today have undergone some form of genital mutilation. It is a present issue and a violation against women’s rights causing severe health consequences, both physical as well as psychological. There is a lack of knowledge and understanding among nurses regarding the issue. Nurses may encounter these women in any medical setting hence increased awareness regarding the consequences is essential.  Aim The aim was to describe the experiences of women who have undergone female genital mutilation. Method The chosen design for the degree project was a literature review which is used in presenting an overview of current research within a specific topic and can easily be applied to clinical work. Data was collected using the bibliographic databases PubMed, CINAHL and PsychInfo from which 15 scientific articles were analyzed and compiled. Result The result showed that women consequently experienced suffering in various ways due to female genital mutilation. The procedure was described as a traumatic experience causing psychological issues. Pain was experienced either in connection to the circumcision procedure or as a result of it. Other commonly presented issues were consequences related to sexual health. These consequences included, but were not limited to, pain, lack of sexual desire and pleasure. Women seeking health care in western countries expressed mostly negative experiences due to how they were approached by health care providers, making them feel abnormal and embarrassed for example.  Conclusion Women suffer in different forms due to female genital mutilation and are treated with a lack of respect and understanding by health care providers. Increased knowledge and awareness is needed in order for women to be treated in a person-centered way.