Login to Access Video or Poster Abstract: MP92-20
Sources of Funding: None

Introduction

Female genital mutilation is the alteration of genitalia for cultural, non-medical purposes and may cause numerous medical complications. The purpose of this study was to examine female genital mutilation cases seen at Denver Health Medical Center, a Level 1 Trauma Center and Safety-Net Hospital in Denver, Colorado. Furthermore, we assessed chief complaints that initiated evaluation and possible medical treatment.

Methods

A retrospective review of Denver Health Medical Center’s database was performed from May 2002 to May 2016. Patients were included in the study when the provider identified female genital mutilation using reference ICD9/10 codes. All patients identified were eligible for this study even if their visit was unrelated to female genital mutilation.

Results

Ninety-two patients were coded as having some form of female genital mutilation at Denver Health Medical Center and were included in the study (Figure 1). A majority of these patients were from Somalia, had Type 3 mutilation, and were seen for childbirth without prenatal visits (Figure 2). Lacerations (37) were the most prevalent dermal lesions encountered in childbearing female genital mutilation patients (Table 1). Additionally, the mutilation led to frequent Caesarean sections (17) and episiotomies (5) in these patients. Urinary tract infections, dyspareunia, inclusion cysts on incised area, and sexual dysfunction were the most common symptoms in the non-pregnant group.

Conclusions

Alteration of female genitalia often causes a variety of medical symptoms. A majority of these patients were from Africa and initially seen due to pregnancy. Further understanding of possible complications due to this practice may prevent urological complications as well as emergent interventions like Caesarean section and episiotomies.

Funding

None