Female Genital Mutilation and Cutting: A Call for Formal Education During Medical School [ID 4002]

INTRODUCTION: Female genital mutilation and cutting (FGM/C) affects approximately 500,000 individuals in the United States and can result in devastating health outcomes such as chronic pelvic infections, pregnancy complications, and post-traumatic stress disorder. Despite the wide prevalence and health consequences, FGM/C education is largely absent from U.S. medical schools. Consequently, physicians are underprepared to screen for or manage affected patients. This study evaluates the current state of FGM/C education in U.S. medical schools and explores students’ interest in the topic. METHODS: A cross-sectional survey was distributed to participants currently enrolled in accredited U.S. medical schools. The survey assessed prior exposure to FGM/C education, perceived benefit of such training, and interest in additional learning. Data frequencies and associations between demographics and perceptions were analyzed. RESULTS: A total of 173 students responded. Most students (83.2%, n=144) reported no formal education on FGM/C, yet 91.3% (n=158) expressed interest in receiving training. 68.2% (n=118) felt education on this topic would benefit them as physicians. Students identifying as female (adjusted odds ratio [AOR] 3.788; 95% CI, 1.538–9.332) and those attending schools in the west (AOR 3.962; 95% CI, 1.326–11.842) were significantly more likely to hold this belief. Among students who received FGM/C education, 50% of students learned about it in the context of obstetrics and gynecology. CONCLUSIONS/IMPLICATIONS: Despite limited formal instruction, medical students overwhelmingly support inclusion of FGM/C in curricula. Introducing this content during the required third-year ob-gyn and pediatrics rotations may provide effective exposure. Further research is needed to define the scope and means of these curricular changes.