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Clitoral reconstruction after female genital mutilation (FGM)

By Dr Olivier Kadoch, obstetrician-gynaecologist · Updated 25/10/2026

In brief

Clitoral reconstruction, reconstructive surgery after female genital mutilation (FGM), aims to reduce pain, restore anatomy and, for many women, help them reclaim their body. It is part of comprehensive medical, psychological and sexological care and, in France, it is covered by the Assurance maladie (national health insurance).

Clitoral reconstruction: comprehensive care

  1. 1Consultation. Listening, examination, description of the mutilation using the World Health Organization (WHO) classification, and information on what surgery can and cannot achieve.
  2. 2Support. A session with a psychologist or sex therapist is offered before you decide, and continues after surgery if you wish.
  3. 3Procedure. Release of the clitoral stump and repositioning of the glans, in a clinic, usually under general anaesthesia.
  4. 4Follow-up. Wound-healing consultations, including a post-operative consultation generally 4 to 6 weeks after the procedure, then assessment of pain and how you feel.

What the studies show

In a French cohort of 2,938 women who had surgery, the large majority of those seen again at one year reported an improvement, or at least no worsening, in pain and sensation. Early complications (haematoma, wound breakdown, fever) occurred in 5% of patients.

Protecting children

Is a girl or teenager at risk of FGM?

In France, call 119 (Allô Enfance en Danger, the national child protection line), free, 24/7, or 17 (police) in an emergency. FGM is a crime in France, including when it is carried out abroad on a minor who usually lives in France.

Frequently asked questions

Is reconstruction reimbursed?

Yes. In France, reconstructive surgery after FGM is covered by the Assurance maladie (national health insurance).

Is psychological support needed?

It is recommended: surgery repairs the anatomy, but the experience of mutilation can also be worked through with a psychologist or sex therapist.

Is surgery necessary to feel better?

No. Some women choose support without surgery. The decision belongs to each patient, with no imposed timeframe.

How long does healing take?

As a guide, the hospital stay is usually one night; time off work is generally about 10 days, exercise is resumed after 6 to 8 weeks and sex after 5 to 8 weeks, once it is painless. These are not guarantees: instructions are tailored to each patient at the consultation.

Where does the operation take place?

It takes place in a private hospital, usually under general anaesthetic: Hôpital privé Geoffroy Saint-Hilaire (Paris 5th), Clinique de la Muette (Paris 16th) or Clinique Ambroise Paré (Neuilly-sur-Seine). A written quote is given to you before the operation.

References

Foldès P, et al. Reconstructive surgery after female genital mutilation: a prospective cohort study. Lancet, 2012. doi:10.1016/S0140-6736(12)60400-0 — PMID 22695031

Haute Autorité de santé (HAS). Prise en charge des mutilations sexuelles féminines par les professionnels de santé de premier recours [Care of female genital mutilation by primary care professionals]. Good practice guideline, February 2020. https://www.has-sante.fr/upload/docs/application/pdf/2020-02/reco307__recommandations_mutilations_sexuelles_feminines.pdf

Berg RC, et al. The effectiveness of surgical interventions for women with FGM/C: a systematic review. BJOG, 2018. doi:10.1111/1471-0528.14839 — PMID 28755440

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