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GPs & primary care team

It is recommended that when considering female genital surgery procedures practitioners take cognisance of the Prohibition of Female Genital Mutilation (Scotland) Act 2005

Procedures not routinely provided by NHSScotland

  • Procedures performed primarily to alter the appearance of the external genitalia.
  • Treatment of cancer/trauma/congenital defects should be considered under the appropriate pathway.
  • Surgery relating to transgender healthcare should be considered under the appropriate pathway.
  • In the presence of physical dysfunction referral to gynaecology/urology should be considered.
  • In the presence of psychological/psychosexual dysfunction primary psychological referral may be more appropriate.

Clinical psychology

  • All approved referrals will be seen by a specialist Clinical Psychologist.

BMI

  • There are no specific BMI restrictions.
  • If BMI is significantly raised, consider carefully whether patient is appropriate for surgery.

Considerations for treatment

Indications for referral

  • Significant functional impairment which must be confirmed by an appropriate specialist (gynaecology or urology).

Contraindications for referral

  • Cosmetic genital surgery is not supported by NHSScotland.

Waiting Times

  • These patients are not subject to the 18 Weeks Referral to Treatment Standard.

Female genital surgery - evidence summary

Treatment for these conditions is not routinely offered by NHSScotland and can only be considered when all criteria are met.