A new set of guidelines from the World Health Organization aims to curb the rising trend of medicalized female genital mutilation (FGM) and to improve care for survivors. Health experts view this as a crucial step toward ending FGM globally, with focus on health, legal, and ethical implications when health professionals are involved.
FGM refers to procedures that intentionally injure the female genital organs for non-medical reasons. The World Health Organization estimates that more than 200 million girls and women alive today have undergone FGM, with millions more at risk each year. Disturbingly, recent research shows a surge in FGM performed by doctors, nurses, or midwives. While some communities view medicalized FGM as safer, global health authorities and women’s rights advocates agree there is no safe form of FGM, and medicalization perpetuates gender inequality and violence. Research and guidance from leading health institutions underscore this stance.
The updated guidelines reaffirm that FGM, whether done by traditional practitioners or licensed clinicians, violates the rights of girls and women and has no health benefits. Short-term risks include heavy bleeding, extreme pain, and infections; long-term consequences range from persistent infections and childbirth complications to sexual dysfunction and lasting psychological trauma. The guidance also emphasizes better training for healthcare workers to resist pressure to perform FGM and to support the health and wellbeing of survivors.
Experts warn that medicalization does not make FGM safer; it lends the practice a veneer of legitimacy. As one reproductive health expert noted, involvement by health professionals breaches medical ethics and exploits public trust. The guidance calls on governments, professional bodies, and health institutions to prohibit any health personnel from performing or facilitating FGM. It also urges comprehensive education campaigns to address myths and gender norms that sustain the practice.
Thailand, while not among the countries with the highest FGM prevalence, remains connected to diverse communities across Southeast Asia and to the country’s public health policy. As a regional medical hub, Thailand bears responsibility to uphold medical ethics and protect vulnerable groups. Health authorities and medical educators can weave the new recommendations into gynecology, obstetrics, and mental health training. Thailand’s Ministry of Public Health has long framed clinical practice around patient dignity and ethics, and advocates call for clearer policies to address FGM in both private and public healthcare settings.
Culturally, FGM touches on broader themes of tradition, ritual, and social expectations found in various societies. Thai health experts encourage distinguishing cultural practices from the harms identified by international bodies. World Health Organization guidance emphasizes clear health and human rights standards. Global and regional conversations on gender, health, and bodily autonomy often gain momentum around events like the International Day of Zero Tolerance for FGM, which fosters dialogue in Thailand and the ASEAN region.
Looking ahead, the WHO guidelines are expected to influence regional policy reviews, professional training, and cross-border cooperation on patient rights. Continuous monitoring will be essential as awareness grows and attitudes shift. The COVID-19 era has also highlighted risks to girls at increased vulnerability due to disruptions in education and protective services.
For Thai readers and policymakers, the clear message is to ensure all health professionals refuse involvement in FGM and to guarantee survivors receive comprehensive, compassionate care. The guidelines offer a framework for strengthening ethics and gender equity across Thai healthcare. Parents, educators, and community leaders are urged to promote discussions that challenge harmful practices, empower girls, and support survivors without stigma.
For practical guidance, healthcare professionals can consult the WHO guidelines on FGM and collaborate with national medical councils to strengthen reporting and prevention mechanisms. Community organizations and educators are encouraged to engage in multi-sector campaigns that involve law enforcement, social services, and mental health supports to assist at-risk groups and survivors. Upholding the dignity and rights of girls and women in Thailand requires sustained, cross-sector collaboration aligned with global efforts to end FGM.