Physical and psychological sequelae of female genital mutilation: a case report.
BACKGROUND
One harmful traditional practice that has resisted change in many African countries is female genital mutilation (FGM), otherwise known as female circumcision. This is usually associated with many complications. This report highlights a combination of physical and psychological sequelae associated with female circumcision.


METHODS
Case-note of a patient managed for complications of female genital mutilation was used with a review of the relevant literature.


RESULTS
A 17-year old, married, illiterate farmer who had complete labial fusion following circumcision is presented. She had a total of six failed repairs, with psychological trauma, prior to her presentation in this hospital. A successful vulval reconstructive surgery was preformed and she was able to start a normal life with her husband.


CONCLUSIONS
FGM carries very high morbidity. All supporters [corrected] of reproductive health should initiate programmes to stop this harmful and dehumanizing practice.
Ibekwe
P C
PC
Department of Obstetrics And Gynaecology, Ebonyi State University Teaching Hospital, Abakaliki, Nigeria.
D000293:Adolescent; D019093:Circumcision, Female / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000523:psychology*; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male