Putting an End to Female Genital Mutilation

Over the years, the mass media has been reporting on the issue of women rights that sent stunning reactions from the western world, such as the United States. In this case, it is the pain and suffering that women endure in western Africa during childhood and puberty. I am referring to female genital mutilation, or FGM.

Female genital mutilation or FGM refers to the different procedures that include partial or complete removal of the female organs, such as the vaginal region. This also causes infliction to the genitalia area for purposes that are not medical-related.This is an absolutely a very cruel and inhumane act. It is a violation of human rights in more ways than one. The mutilation practice violates these women's health and security rights as well as having their self-esteem and dignity taken away. Guess what? Genital mutilation can also cause death in women.

I first heard about this horrible procedure when I saw a segment on 20/20 about this famous model from Somalia who had endure this experience. She was describing how undesirable she was feeling and she did not feel like a real woman.

The female genital mutilation process is categorized in four different types: clitoridectomy, excision, infibulation, and other very hurtful procedures that have a negative impact on the female genitalia. These procedures are very painful and graphic. As an individual born in the western world, I cannot imagine the pain and suffering that these women go through.

My question is if it does not have any beneficial factors, then why does this type of mutilation exists? There are definitely no health benefits because when this is performed, these women and girls stand a greater chance for HIV/AIDS and hurting the sexual, psychological, and reproductive health.There are also societal issues such as the culture and religion that trigger the female genital mutilation. One of the societal factors are that it is a necessity of bringing up a girl with decency and making preparations for her for adulthood and to be marriageable.

In terms of religion, it has mixed opinions. Some of these leaders condone the female genital mutilation and there are others who want this procedure to go away. But many religious leaders want to deny the fact that religion is playing a role.

FGM can have a lasting effect on these women and girls, such as infertility, cysts, and future surgeries. This procedure closes the vaginal opening, but later is re-opened for the purpose of sexual intercourse and the birth of children.

I am glad to know that the world is now aware that this type of procedure is taking place in the world, especially in western Africa. Recently, the local council leaders in Kapchorwa, which is in Uganda, cease the practice of female genital mutilation by passing the law. During the October month, this is the typical season for this act. I hope that they will really enforce this imperative law.

Sources:

http://www.who.int/mediacentre/factsheets/fs241/en
http://allafrica.com/stories/200810150271.html