Female genital mutilation with coexisting pregnancy: case report

Female Genital mutilation (FGM) is an ancient practice that is common among the Africans. It has found a place in the socio-cultural belief of the people despite several attempts that have been made for its eradication. We report the case of a 22-year-old woman who presented with the type IV FGM secondary to the application of caustic substance into the vaginal to achieve abortion. Following a failed attempt, she carried pregnancy to term and was delivered by caesarean section. Attempt is made to review the rare occurrence of severe gynaetresia with coexisting pregnancy, and also to discuss the need for an abdominal delivery at term. There is the need for a sustained public health education and enlightment to stem the tide of practice and to safeguard the health of women. Keywords: acquired gynaetresia, genital mutilation Nigerian Medical Practitioner Vol. 48(2) 2005: 45-4