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What is Female Genital Mutilation?

Female genital mutilation (FGM), also known as female genital cutting (FGC), refers to the cutting away of part or all of a girl’s external genitalia for cultural or non-medical reasons. Although a worldwide practice, it is most prevalent amongst certain African, Middle Eastern and Asian communities. FGM is most commonly performed on girls aged between four to 14—usually without their consent.

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Female Genital Mutilation – Some Key Facts

  • An estimated 135 million girls and women worldwide have been affected by some form of FGM[1].
  • In Africa, about three million girls are at risk of FGM annually[2].
  • It is mostly carried out on girls aged four to 14; however, in countries like Ethiopia, it is also performed on infants[3].
  • The procedure has no health benefits for girls and women.
  • Procedures are routinely traumatic and can cause severe bleeding, infection, problems urinating, and later, potential childbirth complications.
  • FGM is internationally recognised as a violation of the human rights of girls and women.

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What are some of the consequences of Female Genital Mutilation?

Mutilated/cut girls face irreversible lifelong health risks, including:

  • Physical and psychological trauma
  • Infertility
  • Damage to the urethra and anus
  • Problems urinating
  • HIV infection
  • Potential childbirth complications and newborn deaths.

In cases where the mutilation is performed by someone without medical training, the procedure is often carried out without anaesthetic or sterilisation. Sharp, crude objects such as broken glass, a tin lid, scissors, or a razor blade may be used. As a result, patients can die through shock from the immense pain, trauma or excessive bleeding.

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With all the risks involved, why do some societies still practise it?

Different societies have different beliefs; however, the main reasons are:

  • Cleanliness: Some believe the secreting parts of the genitalia are dirty and should therefore be removed. (Note: In reality, vaginal secretions play a critical role in maintaining female health.)
  • Aesthetic: Some think that FGM enhances the beauty of female genitals, in the same way some consider male circumcision to enhance the beauty of male genitals.
  • Sexual: To control or reduce female sexuality. FGM is used in some societies to preserve and prove a girl’s virginity and acts as a prerequisite for honourable marriage.
  • Religion: Some mistake FGM to be a religious requirement.

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I’m not opposed to male circumcision. Why should I view Female Genital Mutilation (which is akin to female circumcision) any differently?

The cultural aspect of FGM may bring to mind male circumcision, but the risks involved are miles apart. In male circumcision, the foreskin is cut off from the tip of the penis without damaging the organ. In FGM, the genitalia can be considerably damaged, while some of the health risks are lifelong.

What we should remember is that FGM is a fundamental violation of the rights of girls to equal opportunities, health, freedom from violence, injury, torture, and cruel or inhumane treatment. Girls should be protected from harmful traditional practices, and should have the right to make their own decisions concerning reproduction.

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I would like to do something about Female Genital Mutilation. How can I help?

Glad you asked! Find out more here.

Would you like to know more about Female Genital Mutilation?

This is by no means an exhaustive list, but it is a start. If you would like to find out more, go here.

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Sources:
  1. “What is Female Genital Mutilation?” Amnesty International.
  2. “Female Genital Mutilation.” World Health Organisation.
  3. “Female Genital Mutilation/Cutting.” Unicef.