International Day Of Zero Tolerance For Female Genital Mutilation.
|FEMALE GENITAL MUTILATION.
Female genital mutilation (FGM) consists all procedures that involve altering or injuring the female genitalia for non-medical reasons.
However, The practice also violates a person’s rights to health, security and physical integrity; the right to be free from torture and cruel, inhuman or degrading treatment; and the right to life, in instances when the procedure results in death.
TYPES OF FGM.
Female genital mutilation is classified into 4 major types:
Type I – Clitoridectomy
Partial or total removal of the clitoris
Type II – Excision
Type III – Partial or total removal of the inner labia.
Narrowing of the vaginal opening by creating a covering seal.
Immediate effects of FGM can include:
- severe pain
- excessive bleeding
- genital tissue swelling
- fever
- infections e.g., tetanus
- urinary problems
- wound healing problems
- injury to surrounding genital tissue
- shock
- death.
Why do people practice FGM?
However, Many affected communities believe that FGM is a necessary custom to ensure that a girl is accepted within the community.
However, Families who practice Female genital on girls usually see it as a way of safeguarding their future.
Other reasons include:
- Perceived health benefits
- Preservation of the girl’s virginity
- Cleanliness
- Rite of passage into woman-hood
- Status in the community
- Protection of family honour