The Globally Rising Tide of Cosmetic Gynaecology: Are Providers Aware of the Ethical Aspects?

The recent alarming rise in the popularity of female genital cosmetic surgeries seen globally has increased commercial opportunities in the aesthetic industry, but at the same time, medical professionals are faced with many ethical dilemmas revolving around the fact that often these procedures are not medically indicated. There is currently no robust scientific evidence available in regard to the safety and long-term outcomes of these procedures. Misleading marketing of these procedures has led to exploitation, especially of vulnerable populations like adolescents. There are also concerns that women might not be fully aware of the risks and potential long-term complications of a failed procedure requiring remedial surgeries, which can have irreversible implications on a woman's physical, mental and emotional health. The increase in demand is mostly driven by the desire to improve self-esteem and keep up with the unrealistic beauty standards set by society through social media platforms run by influencers and media celebrities. This has increasingly led to exploitation of young women's insecurities. There are only a few institutions worldwide offering formal training to professionals in the field of genital cosmetic procedures. In the developing world, there is a lack of regulatory authorities, which is particularly concerning when looking at the highly sensitive ethical aspects of this field. The procedures require expertise and should ideally be offered in accredited institutions by qualified professionals who offer well-researched procedures with realistic outcomes and high ethical standards. The aim of this editorial is to urge gynaecologists, plastic surgeons and aestheticians offering these procedures specifically in the developing countries, to establish ethical guidelines and prioritize evidence-based care over their personal business interests. Educate women about the natural anatomical variations and empower women to make a fully informed decision based on an unbiased and honest disclosure of the limited evidence of long-term benefits and possible serious risks of these procedures.