Labia minora elongation: a neglected formof genital mutilation with mental and sexual health concerns

Abstract

Labia minora elongation (LME) is a form of female genital mutilation (FGM) that involves the elongation of the inner lips of the female external genitalia or labia minora with the use of herbs (i.e., Solanum aculeastrum, Dunal, Bidens pilosa L.), oils, crèmes (i.e., cow-cheese), and other instruments until the intended length is achieved which can range from 2 to 8 cm.1 Unlike other types of FGM, LME is a prolonged process that takes months to years of physical and mental suffering. However, less emphasis has been given to the suffering related to this practice than other forms of FGM.