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Female genital mutilation and pregnancy - Female genital mutilation (FGM)

Female genital mutilation (FGM) can cause complications before and during pregnancy. It can make it more difficult to get pregnant and can sometimes cause complications during labour and birth.

Talk to your GP, midwife or obstetrician as early as possible in your pregnancy if you've had FGM – even if it does not cause you any problems.

Your GP, midwife or obstetrician can help you:

  • take care of your health during your pregnancy
  • discuss and plan for the safest and best method of delivering your baby
  • discuss and plan any procedures that may be necessary to undo the effect of FGM

What is FGM

FGM is also known as female circumcision or cutting. FGM is the harming, injuring, cutting or removal of part or all female external genitalia without any medical reason.

Female genital mutilation (FGM)

FGM support

There is a free FGM treatment service at the Irish Family Planning Association (IFPA) in Dublin city centre.

Women, girls and people in Ireland who had FGM can get free medical, psychological, sexual and reproductive health care.

Anyone living anywhere in Ireland can make an appointment. You do not need a referral. You can just call and make an appointment yourself.

FGM Treatment Service

Irish Family Planning Association
Dublin City Centre Clinic
5/7 Cathal Brugha Street
Dublin 1

Phone number: 01 872 7088

FGM Treatment Service confidential line: 085 877 1342 (phone or text)

Akidwa

Akidwa is a national network of migrant women living in Ireland. They provide support to women and people living with FGM.

Contact Akidwa at 01 834 9851 or info@akidwa.ie.