Table 3
Summary of results
| Criteria | Findings |
|---|---|
| 1. Types of FGCS offered | 77 different procedures named. All sites offer labiaplasty and vaginoplasty/vaginal reconstruction. 3/10 also offer hymen repair |
| 2. Description of procedure | All sites give basic explanation of the surgical procedure |
| 3. Use of medical language | 3/10 sites refer to ‘Labial Hypertrophy’ 5/10 sites referred to ‘Cosmetic Gynaecology’ |
| 4. Symptoms which surgery treats | 9/10 sites claim surgery treats both physical (functional) and aesthetic (appearance) concerns 1/10 sites claim surgery improves appearance and sexual pleasure but no mention of physical symptoms |
| 5. Benefits of surgery implied | All sites claim improved appearance and relief of discomfort. 4/10 sites claim surgery improves hygiene |
| 6. Success rates | 1/10 claim 100%, 1/10 claim 95% |
| 7. Specific reference to social advantages of surgery | 2/10 sites mention social advantage including – improving career prospects in sport and modelling, – reduce signs of ageing – able to wear wider range of clothing – improved self confidence |
| 8. Specific reference to enhancement of sexual experience | 5/10 mention improved sexual relationships and enhanced sexual pleasure for woman and her partner |
| 9. Risks of surgery | All sites mention that surgery has risks |
| 10. Absence or presence of a cautionary advice section | 7/10 offer no cautionary advice 1/10 suggests that ‘proper assessment by a gynaecologist is necessary prior to embarking on surgery’ 2/10 emphasis the important of careful consideration before surgery |
| 11. Aftercare | All sites give general aftercare advice on hygiene, simple analgesia, resumption of sexual intercourse etc |
| 12. Immediate outcomes | 8/10 sites mention mild discomfort and swelling |
| 13. Long- term outcomes | No adverse long-term outcome mentioned. All sites refer to non-specific positive outcomes such as social advantages and enhanced sexual pleasure |
| 14. Absence or presence of positive | 3/10 sites contain small numbers (1–3) testimonials from satisfied customers |
| 15. Absence or presence of before and after photographs | 6/10 contain before and after photographs |
| 16. Lowest age limit for surgery | No site gives a lower age limit for surgery |
