Professional Development Training “FGM: Challenges to Health Care Services in Europe and in Cyprus"

Within the framework International Day of Zero Tolerance to Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) on 6th February 2012, MIGS organized a professional development training for health professionals entitled “Female Genital Mutilation: Challenges to Health Care Services in Europe and in Cyprus” on the 15th and 16th of February 2012 at the University of Nicosia, Cyprus. The training was supported by Amnesty International, Ireland, within the framework of the End FGM European Campaign.

The aim of the training was to provide health professionals in Cyprus (i.e. nurses, midwifes, health visitors, gynecologists) with specialized training sessions that would enhance their knowledge and skills in providing quality, gender-sensitive and culture-sensitive health services to women and girls affected by the life-long consequences of FGM. Additionally, the training aimed at the improvement of inter-departmental cooperation among health professionals involved in obstetric, gynecological health treatment, first aid and other sections of the health system were women or girls affected by FGM may be referred. Hence the training attempted to contribute in the improvement of the quality and effectiveness of the health support system for women victims of violence.

Ms Cristiana Scoppa was the expert trainer who facilitated the two-day training. Ms Scoppa is the Communication and Program Coordinator for Female Genital Mutilation (FGM/C), at the Italian Association for Women in Development (AIDOS).

The health professionals involved had the opportunity to:

• Enhance their knowledge and understanding of FGM and its global and European prevalence and types;

• Enhance their knowledge and understanding of FGM as a social norm and explore the role of the practice in defining women’s gender identity and roles;

• Enhance their understanding of the life-long health consequences of women and girls that have undergone FGM;

• Improve their communication skills in prevention of FGM through “Listening” and “Talking”;

• Identify and discuss the current challenges faced by health professionals in this area;

• Exchange experiences, exchange information and best practices for addressing FGM through health services;

• Encourage the creation of holistic programs to offer psychological and medical assistance within the health environment;

• Encourage the creation of cultural mediation in the care / treatment of women who have undergone FGM.