More research and training are needed to help healthcare professionals better support survivors of female genital mutilation (FGM)during menopause. These women also need better access to evidence-based hormonal treatments to improve their symptoms and future health.

More than 200 million girls and women have undergone female genital mutilation (FGM) globally, and women with FGM may have more symptoms during menopause due to anatomical damage.

Yet a literature review by Newson Research, published in the influential Maturitas journal in 2024, found no published research on the impact menopause, and no clinical guidelines for managing menopause in women who have undergone FGM.

The review calls for a greater focus on the clinical implications that the loss of natural hormones has on the vulvovaginal tissues, as well as on urogenital and sexual function.

It also recommends:

• Tackling healthcare barriers helps women with FGMprepare for and manage menopause
• Understanding genital mutilation's impact on menopause helps professionals support affected women
• Training healthcare professionals to identify and treat the symptoms produced by female genital mutilation is crucial.

Read the full article here.

An article on perimenopause and menopause for FGM survivors, which includes contributions from women living with FGM, can be found here.