Abstract

REMAN, Tara et al. Psychological consequences of female genital mutilation: A mixed-method systematic review. SAJPHYS [online]. 2023, vol.79, n.1, pp.1-7. ISSN 2410-8219.  http://dx.doi.org/10.4102/sajp.v79i1.1877.

BACKGROUND: Female genital mutilation (FGM/C) defined as 'all procedures that involve partial or total removal of the external female genitalia, or other injury to the female genital organs for non-medical reasons' is a cultural practice having several consequences on women's health. Medical and sexual consequences have been documented, but the link between FGM/C and the development of psychological symptoms is not clearly established. The influence of contextual factors is poorly understood OBJECTIVES: To evaluate the psychological impact of FGM/C and how victims experience it METHOD: A mixed method systematic review was conducted. The inclusion criteria were observational primary studies involving women who had undergone FGM/C and had experienced psychological symptoms. Publication bias was assessed by using the Mixed Methods Appraisal Tool. A configurative strategy that involved a comparison of quantitative and qualitative data was used, followed by an analysis of causal link between FGM/C and induced psychological disorders RESULTS: Fourteen studies were included. Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), depression, anxiety and somatisation showed a significantly higher prevalence in women who have experienced FGM/C versus non-mutilated women. Female genital mutilation type II or III were identified as predictors of disorder severity. Qualitative studies showed a significant difference in the perception of FGM/C between immigrant and non-immigrant women, as well as the multidimensional nature of the factors influencing disorders' onsets CONCLUSION: Our study showed a high association of FGM/C (and its degree of severity) with psychological disorders such as PTSD, depression, anxiety and somatisation. It also illustrates contextual factors, including socio-cultural factors that may influence the intensity of these psychological disorders CLINICAL IMPLICATIONS: It is important for health professionals to be aware of the psychological consequences of FGM/C and the different factors influencing FGM/C perception. Indeed, a feeling of 'Being abnormal' can be awakened among patients because of health professionals' incorrect behaviours

Keywords : female genital mutilation; cutting; mental health; psychological symptoms; mixed method systematic review.

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