Three new anatomical models : clitoris re-exposition surgery
On this international day against female genital mutilations, let me share two feelings : JOY and PRIDE.
Joy, because when you carry a project like SEX-ED + alone, respecting a deadline is a feat that requires stubbornness, determination and luck – a simple flu can overthrow everything.
Pride, because such anatomical models didn’t exist before, and they are going to answer the needs of caregivers and women who have experienced excision/infibulation.
What is this new toolkit about?
It’s the silicone reproduction of the vulvae of three women who had an excision/infibulation and elected to have a surgery to re-expose the clitoris stump.
Why is it important?
—- These bodies exist, therefore they must be documented and studied so that people who have had excision/infibulation can expect the same quality of care than others.
—- It allows visual and tactile references for medical professionals in training. I have once witnessed a surgeon detailing her surgical technique with the support of drawings in a word document. We deserve better!
—- It can be used to accompany women in their health care journey. Not all women who had an excision/infibulation want, need or have access to a clitoris reconstructive surgery. But for those considering the option, it’s important to have anatomical models to better understand what to expect in terms of results. Those can greatly vary from one woman to the next so these reproductions can help understand the possibilities, the expected outcomes, aesthetically and functionally, and help in the decision making process.
“For me, it allows to break what I call “the mirror” between healthcare providers and women concerned and also to help inform about the body of a woman affected by FGM. The type of female genital mutilation varies from woman to woman, from origin to origin.”
Testimony from one of the model.
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