Female genital mutilation (FGM) is a harmful traditional practice that involves the partial or total removal of the external female genitalia. It is estimated that over 200 million girls and women worldwide have undergone this practice, with approximately 3 million at risk of being cut each year.
FGM is prevalent in over 30 countries, primarily in Africa, the Middle East, and Asia. It is often performed on girls between the ages of 4 and 14 and is carried out by traditional practitioners who often use unsterilized instruments, such as knives, scissors, or razor blades. The procedure is usually performed without anesthesia and can result in severe pain, bleeding, and long-term health consequences.
There are four types of FGM, ranging from the partial or total removal of the clitoris to the removal of all external genitalia and the sewing of the vaginal opening. The most severe form, known as infibulation, can cause urinary and menstrual problems, as well as difficulties with sexual intercourse and childbirth.
FGM is often justified on cultural or religious grounds, but it has no basis in either. In fact, FGM is a violation of human rights and is recognized as a form of violence against women and girls by the United Nations.
Real-life scenario: In 2018, a woman named Mariam was interviewed by the BBC about her experience with FGM. Mariam, who is from Gambia, was cut when she was just a baby, and the memory of the procedure still haunts her. She describes the pain and trauma she experienced as a child and the long-term health consequences she still suffers from, including chronic infections and painful intercourse. Despite the dangers of FGM, Mariam’s family and community continue to support the practice, making it difficult for her to speak out.
It is essential to raise awareness about the dangers of FGM and to empower girls and women to speak out against this harmful practice. Governments, NGOs, and individuals must work together to end FGM by providing education, support, and resources to communities where it is prevalent.
In conclusion, FGM is a harmful practice that has devastating effects on the health and well-being of girls and women. It is a violation of human rights and must be eradicated. We must all work together to put an end to this harmful practice and ensure that girls and women everywhere are protected from this form of violence.
