FGM Prevention and Its Impact on Girls’ Health Worldwide

By Darius Spearman (africanelements)

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KEY TAKEAWAYS
Female genital mutilation is a severe human rights violation affecting over 230 million girls and women.
FGM leads to over 44,000 deaths annually among young girls in regions where it is practiced.
Health complications include severe pain, infections, and long-term issues that cost healthcare systems $1.4 billion a year.
Cultural norms and misplaced beliefs about female sexuality perpetuate the practice of FGM.
The UNFPA-UNICEF Joint Programme is a leading initiative aimed at eliminating FGM through education and legal reforms.
Approximately 27 million girls are projected to be at risk of FGM in the next five years, necessitating urgent action.

The Devastating Reality of Female Genital Mutilation: A Human Rights Crisis

Female genital mutilation is a severe violation of human rights affecting women and girls globally. This practice involves removing parts or all external female genitalia without medical reasons. Over 230 million females worldwide have experienced FGM, with over 125 million survivors in Africa (World Health Organization).

Each year, thousands of young lives are lost to this practice. Recent research shows FGM leads to more than 44,000 deaths annually in regions where it persists (News Medical).

Devastating Health Consequences

FGM can cause intense pain, bleeding, and serious infections immediately after the procedure. Survivors face ongoing issues such as chronic urinary problems and difficult childbirth experiences. Healthcare systems spend roughly $1.4 billion each year treating FGM-related complications (World Health Organization).

Additionally, many survivors endure lifelong psychological trauma. Depression, sexual dysfunction, and relationship challenges frequently affect those who have undergone FGM (Ballard Brief).

Cultural Roots and Social Pressures

FGM continues partly due to entrenched social norms and incorrect beliefs about female sexuality. Many communities view it as an essential rite of passage for girls. Women often unknowingly continue this cycle across generations despite its harmful effects (Ballard Brief).

Although no religious texts require FGM, religious justifications endure. Certain community leaders misuse these misconceptions to keep this damaging tradition alive (UNFPA).

Understanding Female Genital Mutilation and Its Types

Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) refers to procedures that intentionally alter or cause injury to female genital organs for non-medical reasons. The World Health Organization categorizes FGM into four main types. Type I involves partial or total removal of the clitoral glans and/or the prepuce. Type II includes the removal of the clitoral glans and the labia minora, sometimes extending to the labia majora. Type III, known as infibulation, narrows the vaginal opening by creating a seal formed by cutting and repositioning the labia. Type IV encompasses all other harmful procedures to the female genitalia for non-medical purposes, such as pricking, piercing, incising, scraping, or cauterizing. (World Health Organization)

This practice persists in 30 countries across Africa, the Middle East, Asia, and some immigrant communities worldwide. Over 200 million women and girls alive today have undergone FGM, highlighting its widespread impact. (World Health Organization) Moreover, FGM is often linked to cultural rites of passage, preparing girls for adulthood and marriage. (The Effects of Social Interactions on Female Genital Mutilation)

Psychological Trauma and Long-Term Health Effects

Beyond immediate physical pain, FGM leads to severe psychological trauma. Survivors frequently experience anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder. These mental health issues stem from the traumatic nature of the procedure and the societal pressures surrounding it. (Female Genital Mutilation: A Systematic Review of Research on its Psychological Effects) Additionally, long-term health complications are common. Infibulation can cause chronic pain, infections, urinary problems, and complications during childbirth. Obstetric issues like prolonged labor and fistulas put both mothers and babies at risk. (World Health Organization)

Furthermore, sexual dysfunction often affects survivors, leading to relationship difficulties. Many women face challenges in intimacy due to physical scarring and psychological distress. This impacts their overall quality of life and well-being. (Ballard Brief) Therefore, addressing physical and mental health needs is essential for supporting survivors.

Misconceptions About Religion and Cultural Significance

Despite common beliefs, no major religious texts prescribe FGM. However, misconceptions persist, and some communities view it as a religious obligation. Clarifying these misunderstandings is essential to combating the practice. (UNFPA) Religious leaders can help educate communities and dispel myths.

FGM is often considered a cultural rite of passage, marking the transition from girlhood to womanhood. This societal pressure makes it challenging to abandon the practice. Engaging community leaders and promoting alternative rites can help shift these deep-rooted norms. (The Effects of Social Interactions on Female Genital Mutilation) Moreover, education programs that respect cultural traditions while advocating for health and human rights are effective.

Global Efforts and Community Education Programs

Global communities are taking action to eliminate FGM through awareness campaigns and legal reforms. Community education programs aim to raise awareness about the risks of FGM and encourage cultural change. These initiatives involve working with local leaders to challenge norms that support the practice. (Female Genital Mutilation: A Systematic Review of Research on its Psychological Effects)

Many countries have enacted laws to prohibit FGM, recognizing it as a human rights violation. However, enforcement varies, and cultural pressures continue to drive the practice. Therefore, combining legal measures with community engagement is essential. (World Health Organization) Additionally, international organizations support these efforts by providing resources and advocacy.