Introduction: There are three different types of female circumcision: phara
onic type, sunna and intermediary circumcision. Female circumcision - also
called female genital mutilation (FGM) - is seen more frequently by general
practitioners, gynecologists or urologists even in europe because of an in
creasing number of immigrating people. The following article points out pos
sible complications after circumcision by 39 patients from Sudan and a lite
rature review.
Method and Material: Between 1986 and 1989 39 patients from four different
regions in Sudan were seen because of complications during delivery and aft
erwards. Complications during and after delivery and urogynecologic complic
ations were noted. Circumcisions and deliveries were performed by tradition
al midwives. For the treatment of complications doctors but not the midwive
s were involved. The patients' age was between eight and 41 years (median 2
4). All patients except one had been circumcised pharaonically.
Results: After circumcision infections, complications during and after deli
very by prolonged second stage and sexual malfunction as well as retention
of menstrual blood, urinary retention and septicemia are possible. Genital
infections are mainly caused by the use of unsterile instruments and techni
ques, lack of hygiene and retention of blood.
Discussion: Complications after circumcision are frequently seen after deli
veries and after the circumcision itself. In Europe there is a growing numb
er of circumcised patients who seek medical advice, Especially obstetric pa
tients but also urogynecologic patients and in general practice questions a
rise concerning treatment or counselling of circumcised women. Information
regarding possible treatments by reconstructive surgery demands knowledge o
f the different kinds of circumcision.