Complications of Female Genital Mutilation The complications of female genital mutilation can be immediate, long-term, and deeply personal. Female genital mutilation affects every aspect of a girl or woman’s health, including physical, reproductive, sexual, and psychological wellbeing. The severity often depends on the type of FGM performed and the age at which it was done. Immediate Complications Short-term risks include: Severe pain and shock Excessive bleeding (haemorrhage) Swelling and inflammation Infections, including tetanus, HIV, or sepsis Urinary retention, due to swelling or pain Death, in rare cases from uncontrolled bleeding or infection Many of these complications occur because the procedure is performed without anaesthesia, sterile tools, or medical training. Long-Term Physical Complications Survivors may experience: Chronic pelvic pain Recurring urinary tract infections (UTIs) Painful menstruation or blocked flow Sexual dysfunction, including pain during intercourse or reduced pleasure Infertility, in some cases linked to scarring or infection Complicated childbirth, often requiring surgical intervention or caesarean delivery Obstetric fistula, a rare but devastating injury from obstructed labour These complications can lead to lifelong health issues and repeated hospital visits. Psychological Complications The emotional impact of FGM may include: Anxiety or panic attacks, especially during medical exams Depression, guilt, or shame Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) Body image issues, especially around intimacy or sexuality Relationship difficulties, due to physical pain or emotional disconnection Supportive counselling is often essential to help survivors process these experiences and begin healing. Social and Cultural Effects Women affected by FGM may: Struggle to access appropriate care, especially if language or cultural barriers exist Face stigma if they reject or speak out against FGM Fear rejection from their community or family Encounter barriers in education or work, particularly if trauma leads to withdrawal or low confidence Children at risk may be removed from school or hidden from authorities in efforts to avoid legal consequences, disrupting their education and safety. Medicalisation Risks | Complications of Female Genital Mutilation In some regions, FGM is now performed by healthcare professionals to reduce harm. However, this medicalisation does not eliminate complications and continues to violate human rights. It also risks legitimising a harmful practice. The complications of female genital mutilation are far-reaching and deeply damaging. Eliminating FGM requires more than legal bans—it requires education, healthcare access, survivor support, and cultural change driven from within affected communities. [Next: Back to Overview →] Complications of Female Genital Mutilation