Dahlia Clients Inform National Research on FGM Reconstructive Surgery
Eleven women supported through our Dahlia Project took part in new research exploring reconstructive surgery for survivors of female genital mutilation (FGM). Their contributions are now published in Health Expectations, as part of a national study led by Imperial College London and ACERS-UK.
The study looked at survivors’ views on surgery, barriers to access, and the kind of support women would need before and after the procedure. Key themes included the impact of FGM on body image, sexual wellbeing, and mental health, and the importance of offering reconstruction alongside trauma counselling and psychosexual therapy.
The Dahlia Project hosted the survivor workshops and supported participation through translation, childcare, and a trauma-informed setting. The article highlights how survivor-led engagement can improve research and push for changes in NHS care pathways. The women who took part were all clients of our psychotherapeutic service.
Read the full article in Health Expectations