Introduction: According to figures released by UNICEF (United Nations Children’s Fund), more than 200 million girls and women have suffered female genital mutilation (FGM) in 30 African and Middle East countries. An increasing number of African women who come from ethnic groups where FGM is practised are arriving in Western countries. Healthcare professionals play a fundamental role in its prevention. Goals: To learn about the factors that healthcare professionals consider as facilitators for prevention and action when faced with female genital mutilation. Methods: A cross-sectional descriptive study developed on the basis of the qualitative methodological perspective, where 43 healthcare professionals participated. A series of analysis dimensions were established, based on which, the interview and discussion group scripts were designed. Results: Addressing FGM requires a series of structural adaptations of the healthcare system that facilitate the recording and monitoring of cases, both for treatment and for prevention. In addition, it is necessary to establish coordination between the healthcare, social services and education sectors. Conclusions: The existence of a protocol of action and training in its use is one of the key tools to take into account.

Background: Female genital mutilation (FGM) is any process that injures female genitals for non-medical reasons and is a violation of women’s human rights. An important number of women from countries where FGM is performed are arriving to Western countries. Health professionals are important for detecting cases of FGM. No surveys to assess knowledge, attitudes and practices on FGM among healthcare professionals has been conducted in Castilla la Mancha (Spain) until now. Methods: The main goal of the study is assessing knowledge, attitudes and perceptions of healthcare professionals in relation to FGM. A cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted based on self-administered online surveys to nurses, midwives, family doctors, pediatricians, obstetrics and gynecologists. Results: In total, 1168 professionals answered the surveys. Just 13.9% indicated that they had received training in FGM, however just 10.7% correctly identified the three types of FGM, 10.7% the countries where it is usually practiced, 33.9% knew the legislation in Spain and only 4.4% found a case of FGM during their professional practice. Regarding the knowledge about protocols, 8.64% of the sample indicated to know one of them. Conclusion: The present study demonstrate that it is necessary to improve the training and awareness of healthcare professionals related to FGM in Castilla la Mancha.