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Female genital plasty is becoming the new fashion trend
Last reviewed: 01.07.2025
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Scientists at University College London, led by Dr Sarah Crichton, cite figures showing that vaginal surgery is becoming a real trend among young girls under the age of 14. According to experts, 343 operations have been carried out in the last six years, most of them possibly for cosmetic reasons.
The procedures involve changing the shape of the female genitalia.
Researchers say that performing vaginal reshaping surgery at this age is a violation and that there is no minimum age for this type of surgery.
Experts emphasize that such operations at such a young age can lead to psychological problems. The information provided by private clinics, where such operations are often performed, does not give a full picture of either the procedure itself or its possible consequences. The patient may be told about this type of surgical intervention in a confusing manner and using medical terminology that is incomprehensible to an uninformed person, omitting or not fully disclosing all the risks of this procedure. This is confirmed by a review of ten medical websites of clinics providing such services. But instead of complete information, physical, psychological and sexual benefits after the procedure are described, often without any justification.
"Most concerning is the lack of a lower age limit for any type of female genital plastic surgery," comments Dr. Crichton.
Often women are driven to these types of plastic surgery by dissatisfaction with their appearance. They undergo operations to change the shape of the labia and inner lips of the vagina. These operations are becoming not such a rare occurrence.
"As for the indications for such types of operations for children, they are unknown, but their necessity is very rare. The shape of the labia changes with age, and this is part of the puberty period. From 10 to 14 years old, the growth and enlargement of the labia minora occurs, nature prepares the girl for the role of a woman, a mother. For some, this process is slower, and for some, faster. And a change in shape at such a young age carries numerous risks to the girl's health," says Dr. Crichton.
Experts say that despite the fact that the number of such operations performed has been recorded, the reasons why patients sought help from specialists remain a mystery.
Dr. Crichton says it is impossible to ban plastic surgery on the vagina for girls under 14, because there may be medical reasons and indications for this, but these procedures are extremely dangerous, especially for girls under 18.
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