What is Female Genital Mutilation (FGM)?

Female genital mutilation (FGM) refers to all procedures that intentionally alter or cause injury to the female genital organs for non-medical reasons. It is recognized internationally as a human rights violation and a harmful practice with no health benefits. FGM is deeply rooted in cultural, religious, and social traditions in some communities but has significant physical and psychological consequences.

Types of Female Genital Mutilation

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), FGM is classified into four main types:

Type 1: Clitoridectomy
- Partial or total removal of the clitoris or the clitoral hood.
Type 2: Excision
- Partial or total removal of the clitoris and the labia minora, with or without the removal of the labia majora.
Type 3: Infibulation
- Narrowing of the vaginal opening through the creation of a covering seal. The seal is formed by cutting and repositioning the labia, with or without clitoral removal.
Type 4: Other Harmful Practices
- Includes all other harmful procedures to the female genitalia for non-medical purposes, such as pricking, piercing, scraping, or cauterizing.

Where and Why is FGM Practiced?

FGM is predominantly practiced in parts of Africa, the Middle East, and Asia, though it is also observed in some immigrant communities worldwide. The reasons for practicing FGM vary but often include:

Cultural Traditions: A rite of passage or a symbol of community belonging.
Gender Norms: Beliefs about controlling women’s sexuality and maintaining purity.
Religious Misinterpretations: FGM is not mandated by any religion but is sometimes falsely linked to religious requirements.
Social Pressure: Fear of stigma or exclusion within communities.

The Health and Psychological Impacts of FGM

FGM has no medical benefits and can cause severe short- and long-term health complications, such as:

Physical Consequences:

Extreme pain and bleeding during the procedure.
Infections, including sepsis.
Difficulty urinating and menstruating.
Increased risk during childbirth, including maternal and infant mortality.

Psychological Consequences:

Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
Depression and anxiety.
Long-term emotional distress.

Is FGM Legal?

FGM is illegal in many countries, including those where it is most prevalent, as well as in countries with strong immigrant communities practicing it. International frameworks such as the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (CRC) and the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW) condemn the practice. However, enforcement can be challenging due to cultural sensitivities and lack of awareness.

What is Being Done to End FGM?

Efforts to eliminate FGM focus on a mix of education, legislation, and community engagement. Organizations like the World Health Organization (WHO), UNICEF, and UNFPA (United Nations Population Fund) are leading global campaigns to:

Raise awareness about the harmful effects of FGM.
Support survivors through medical and psychological care.
Empower local communities to abandon the practice.
Advocate for stronger legal protections and enforcement.

A Story: Fatima’s Journey

Fatima, a 12-year-old girl from a rural village in Somalia, had always been a curious and lively child. Her days were spent playing with her friends, helping her mother fetch water, and dreaming of becoming a teacher. But one day, her mother told her it was time for her “transition into womanhood.”

Fatima didn’t fully understand what this meant, but she knew it was something every girl in her community went through. Her mother explained that this ritual was essential for her acceptance into the community and for securing a good marriage in the future. Fatima felt a mixture of pride and fear as she prepared for what lay ahead.

A week later, an elder woman in the village, known as the “cutter,” arrived at Fatima’s home. The procedure was done in a small, dimly lit room with no medical tools or anesthetics. Fatima’s mother and aunt held her hands tightly as the elder performed the cutting. The pain was excruciating, and Fatima screamed, but she was told to be strong and endure it for the sake of her family’s honor.

After the procedure, Fatima suffered from heavy bleeding and infection. She spent weeks recovering, unable to walk or help her mother with chores. Her dreams of school seemed distant as she struggled to come to terms with what had happened. Though Fatima was praised for her “bravery” by the elders, inside she felt confused, hurt, and isolated.

Learn More

Female genital mutilation is a serious violation of human rights with devastating physical and emotional consequences. By raising awareness, advocating for survivors, and supporting global efforts to end this practice, we can move closer to a world where all women and girls are free from harm and able to live with dignity.

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Please note: the views and opinions expressed on this blog are that of my own and do not represent the opinions of any agency mentioned.