New European FGM study makes survivors over 50 visible
Did you know that almost one in three women living with the consequences of female genital mutilation in Europe are over 50? A new study by Livia Elisa Ortensi, published in The Lancet Regional Health Europe, is shining a light on this often-overlooked population.
The research helps fill an important gap in FGM data and evidence, which has largely focused on girls and women of reproductive age, leaving the experiences and specific needs of women over 50 less visible.
The new research estimates that in 2021, 172,813 women aged 50 and above were living with FGM across the EU-27, Norway, Switzerland and Iceland. This represents 29.5% of all women aged 15 and above estimated to be living with FGM in these countries. The figures also show significant differences across Europe. France, the Netherlands, Italy and Germany have the largest estimated numbers of women over 50 living with FGM. In Greece, Croatia, Poland and the Netherlands, women over 50 represent more than half of all women aged 15 and above estimated to be living with FGM. These estimates should not be read as exact numbers of individual cases. They are based on an indirect estimation method that takes into account factors including differences between generations and migrant populations.
Nevertheless, they reveal an important demographic shift: as migrant communities in Europe age, a substantial population of women is living with FGM later in life. Women must not become invisible when they move beyond reproductive age. A feminist approach to ending FGM means challenging a system that too often views women’s health through the lens of reproduction, while ensuring that survivors are seen, heard and supported throughout their lives.
The study highlights areas where significant knowledge gaps remain. Menopause may interact with FGM-related scarring and anatomical changes, potentially affecting vaginal dryness, genitourinary symptoms and susceptibility to infection. At the same time, there is still limited understanding of how psychological consequences associated with FGM, including anxiety, depression and post-traumatic stress, may evolve as women age.
At the End FGM European Network, we believe that no survivor should become invisible because of her age. Better data, inclusive research and accessible, survivor-centred care are essential to understanding the diverse realities of women and girls affected by this human rights violation and to ensuring that efforts to end FGM truly leave no one behind.
