THE LEARNING OUTCOMES:
Midwifery care for women with lived experience of Female Genital Mutilation/Cutting (FGM/C) often centers around preparing women for birth through deinfibulation. While important, this narrow focus risks overlooking the needs of survivors of other FGM/C types. These women may not require surgery, but still face lasting physical, psychological, sexual, and obstetric consequences. This skills-based workshop will be delivered within the context of gender equity and rights, Build midwives’ confidence and competence in diagnosing all types of FGM/C, offering compassionate, Learn how to provide holistic, culturally-sensitive, trauma-informed care and simulate a comprehensive safeguarding risk assessment encompassing intersectional violence such as virginity testing, hymenoplasty, early/forced marriage, trafficking, etc. Focus upon FGM/C prevention and health information education - latest evidence, community engagement, and risks associated with childbirth. Highlight communication skills required to build trust and explain FGM types, while supporting dignity, choice, and healing. Correct misconceptions about genital anatomy and physiology (for clinicians and survivors), providing:- accurate information and myth busting around sexual pleasure, and positive vulval messaging. Co-design, with participants, a conceptual model for delivering respectful and rights-based care.

THE PROCESS/ACTIVITIES:
Facilitated by Specialist Midwives from diverse ethnic backgrounds, including the UK, Somalia, Australia, the USA, Sierra Leone, and an FGM/C survivor whose voice will add impetus to the session. Interactive Quiz - Quick Refresher Use of lifelike vulval-clitoral models and 3D clinical photographs to aid visual identification of different FGM/C types and assess complex presentations. Role play - counseling women using line drawings to explain FGM/C types; physical and psychological consequences; human rights violations; right to bodily integrity; why, when, and where FGM/C takes place, etc Case studies of different FGM types and their care needs Q&A and evaluation

AUDIENCE PARTICIPATION:
Breakout discussions; Role play; Simulation; Q&A; Co-created outputs, Evaluation Additional reading World Health Organization. Types of Female Genital Mutilation/Cutting With Subgroups. World Health Organization; 2020. World Health Organization. WHO Guideline on the Prevention of Female Genital Mutilation/Cutting and Clinical Management of Complications. World Health Organization; 2025. Abdulcadir J. Visual guides and reference tool. 2016.