Titre
Gynecology Division
Adresse

Boulevard de la Cluse 30
1205 Genève
Switzerland

Patrick Petignat
Professor
Patrick Petignat
Head of division

Female genital mutilation

The HUG Gynecology Division has extensive experience in the prevention, care, and management of complications related to female genital mutilation.

Female genital mutilation (or FGM) refers to the removal of external female genitalia for non-medical reasons, such as excision, infibulation, or circumcision. There are several types of female genital mutilation. All can have consequences on the physical, psychological, and sexual health of women. In Switzerland, it is estimated that this affects 24 600 women and girls.

Female genital mutilation : a clinic ready to help

Since 2010, a specialized and multidisciplinary clinic, comprised of physicians and nursing/midwifery staff trained in sexual medicine, trauma, and vulva disease, has offered personalized and adapted care.

What are the complications of female genital mutilation ?

  • Urinary problems (painful or difficult urination, infections)
  • Gynecological problems (cysts, infections)
  • Sexual problems (pain, etc.)
  • Obstetric problems (complications with childbirth)
  • Psychological problems (depression, anxiety, etc.)

Do you have questions ? Talk to your gynecologist or contact the specialized clinic.

What happens at the consultation?

You are seen at the clinic in full confidentiality and can ask any questions you wish. After discussion and as needed, you are examined to determine the type of FGM and the treatment most suitable for your situation.

The consultation is conducted by a gynecologist and surgeon trained in vulva disease and sexual medicine, who is an expert in FGM. She offers trauma informed multidisciplinary personalized care and services, which are respectful and culturally sensitive.

She works closely with :

Care and services of the clinic

  • Information about female genital mutilation and vulval/clitoral anatomy
  • Clinical examination with certificate for eventual forensic purposes
  • Personalized assessment
  • Treatment of complications and consequences of female genital mutilation
  • Defibulation (surgical treatment for infibulation) : Youtube video
  • Clitoral reconstructive surgery : Youtube video
  • Explanations and discussions about childbirth, check-up after childbirth, guidance about pelvic floor therapy
  • Prevention of female genital mutilation : Statement opposing female genital mutilation

Learn more

Reports

Contact

Colonne 1

Jasmine Abdulcadir Dre Jasmine Abdulcadir
Staff physician
Tel +41 (0)79 553 50 97
E-mail jasmine.abdulcadir@hug.ch

Colonne 2

Pascale TheodetMrs Pascale Theodet
To book an appointment

Tel +41 (0)22 372 09 54
E-mail pascale.theodet@hug.ch

More information

Last update : 07/01/2025