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If you have been circumcised you may need it to be opened:
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- before getting pregnant, or
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- at another time in your life.
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If you are currently pregnant you can be opened between 20-30 weeks of pregnancy, or during the birth to allow the passage of the baby.
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It is not legal in Australia to be sewn up all the way again after the birth, you should discuss this with the doctor, midwife or African Women’s worker (FARREP) looking after you.
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Booking in to see a doctor to discuss the procedure and to have the procedure can take some time, so speak to your doctor or midwife about this as soon as you can.
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The procedure is done as day surgery at the hospital and involves the reversal of the circumcision under general or local anaesthesia. If you are having a general anaesthetic it will be done in the Day Surgery Unit on level 3. If you are having a local anaesthetic the midwives in the Women's Health Clinics on level 1 will be taking care of you. We can do the procedure even if you have your period. You will be able to go home on the same day as the procedure.
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Wound care includes cleaning the genital area, and using pain relief as required. You will usually need 2-3 days at home resting to recover.
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Body changes include:
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- passing urine: faster, stronger stream, noisier
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- period flow: heavier and more intense, less pain and clots
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- sex: less painful, feeling loose due to wider vaginal entrance.
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Support available after the procedure
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You can speak to staff before the procedure about services we can provide including transport, childcare, interpreters and services to assist you to recover at home.
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If you would like to book an appointment to discuss deinfibulation
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If you are pregnant and seeing a doctor or midwife at the Women's you can speak to them at your next appointment. It is important that you discuss deinfibulation with your doctor or midwife early in your pregnancy.
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If you are not pregnant you can call the Women's Health Information Centre and speak to a nurse/midwife on (03) 8345 3045.
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Where to get more information
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Royal Women's Hospital
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African Women’s worker (FARREP)
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Tel: (03) 8345 3058
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Women’s Health Information Centre
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Tel: (03) 8345 3045 or 1800 442 007 (rural callers)
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Other contacts
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Your local Doctor (GP)
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Disclaimer
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The Royal Women’s Hospital does not accept any liability to any person for the information or advice (or use of such information or advice) which is provided in this fact sheet or incorporated into it by reference. We provide this information on the understanding that all persons accessing it take responsibility for assessing its relevance and accuracy. Women are encouraged to discuss their health needs with a health practitioner. If you have concerns about your health, you should seek advice from your health care provider or if you require urgent care you should go to the nearest Emergency Dept.
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Published Nov 2007, updated July 2011
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