article_snippet.sent: The number of female genital cosmetic operations performed on NHS NHS has risen five-fold in the last decade as women worry women're not 'normal'.
article_snippet.sent: Experts at the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists at the World Congress in Brisbane, have called for more research to try and better understand women's motivations.
article_snippet.sent: A study by the University of Melbourne explored the views of women aged 18 to 28.
article_snippet.sent: Interviews focused on participants' views of the 'normal' and 'ideal' vulval anatomy, on cosmetic surgery and the sources of information available.
article_snippet.sent: Calida Howarth, from the University of Melbourne, said: 'It is essential that doctors do not assume that women have an inherent knowledge of women genitalia and the anatomical terms used to describe it. '
article_snippet.sent: This contemporary women's health issue requires further research and interdisciplinary collaboration if we are going to ensure best practice and achieve optimal outcomes for our patients.'
article_snippet.sent: Source: NHS Choices concluded that women would benefit from better access to information showing a range of normal vulval anatomy.
article_snippet.sent: However, Another study led by the University of New South Wales also highlighted the need for careful recognition among the healthcare profession of the possible reasons for the increase in women seeking surgery.
article_snippet.sent: Research has exposed a lack of education regarding the management of patients requesting female genital cosmetic surgery.
article_snippet.sent: If they are able to provide adequate, accurate information to patients, this may prevent unnecessary surgery and alleviate patient anxiety. 'GPs should also consider referring women to a gynaecologist rather than a cosmetic surgeon when women wish to have surgery.'
article_snippet.sent: And the experts called for further research around the surgery and patients' knowledge and perceptions of 'normal' vulval anatomy.
highlights_snippet.sent: Experts call for more information to help women understand what's normal .