[The author responds:]
Phillipa Rispin is correct that the United Nations has recommended the term “female genital mutilation (FGM)” rather than “female circumcision”; however, as the editors point out, some people would feel insulted by the term “mutilation.” In the case we described,1 the parents clearly used the term “circumcision” rather than “mutilation” in describing their daughter's medical history. I agree that “female circumcision” is not analogous to male circumcision, and Box 1 in our article clearly describes what can be involved in FGM. As health care professionals, it is important to be culturally sensitive, while at the same time being aware of health practices that can potentially harm our patients and educate families accordingly.
REFERENCE
- 1.↵