Knowledge, attitudes, and practice of female genital mutilation and cutting: an observational cross-sectional study in English primary care (FGM/C Study)

Abstract

BackgroundFemale genital mutilation and cutting (FGM/C) describes procedures involving partial or total removal of the external female genitalia or other injury to the female genital organs for non-medical reasons. Increasing migration means many communities living in the UK originate from countries where FGM/C is practised. Consequently, clinicians in the UK are increasingly exposed to women and children who have experienced FGM/C.AimTo explore the knowledge, attitudes, and practice of primary care GPs and practice nurses (PNs) regarding FGM/C.Design & settingAn observational cross-sectional study with GPs and PNs working in primary care in the West Midlands, UK.MethodAn online survey was circulated to GPs and PNs between September 2019 and December 2019.ResultsA total of 137 survey responses were received. Study participants were predominantly female (81.8%) and GPs (59.9%), with a mean age of 47.3 years (standard deviation [SD] 9.1). The survey found 19.7% of responders reported seeing >1 patient with FGM/C in the past 12 months. It also found 91.3% of responders had received some form of FGM/C training; however, the format and frequency of training varied and 34.3% felt they had received inadequate training to manage treatment of FGM/C.ConclusionThe results have suggested varying degrees of competence and confidence associated with recognising and managing patients with FGM/C in primary care in the West Midlands. Given that patients with FGM/C typically present in primary care, it is important that clinicians can provide appropriate support underpinned by up-to-date training.