Relation of Female Circumcision to Sexual Dysfunction in Damietta Governorate – Egypt

Background: Female circumcision, also known as female genital mutilation, is associated with several complications. However, its effect on sexual function remains a gap in knowledge.Aim: This study aims to investigate the possible relationship between female circumcision and the development of female sexual dysfunction in Damietta Governorate.Patients and Methods: This was an observational cross-sectional study conducted on 100 randomly selected, nonpregnant, married women of sexually active age attending outpatient clinics at Al-Azhar University Hospital. All participants were asked to complete the Arabic-validated Female Sexual Function Index [FSFI].Results: In the current study, 59% of the participants [59 individuals] experienced sexual dysfunction. In the circumcised group, 27 participants [50.94%] experienced sexual dysfunction, whereas in the uncircumcised group, 32 participants [68.09%] were affected, indicating a higher prevalence. However, there was no statistically significant difference between the two groups regarding female sexual dysfunction. Additionally, no significant difference was observed between type 1 and type 2 circumcision in relation to the occurrence of sexual dysfunction. Notably, sexual desire was lower in the uncircumcised group.Conclusion: Although sexual desire was lower in the uncircumcised group, circumcision did not have a significant effect on overall female sexual function.