Female genital mutilation (FGM) is a harmful practice affecting millions of women and girls globally. This post explores the significant health consequences of FGM, based on a recent comprehensive study.
FGM involves the partial or complete removal of external female genitalia. This procedure, done for non-medical reasons, has devastating short and long-term effects on a woman’s health and well-being.
The immediate aftermath of FGM can be incredibly dangerous. A recent study found that a significant portion of girls (between 9% and 24%) who underwent FGM experienced problems such as:
- Difficulty urinating
- Heavy bleeding
- Wound infections
- Swelling
- Slow wound healing
The negative health effects of FGM don’t end after the procedure. Women who have undergone FGM face a much higher risk of various complications throughout their lives, including:
- Obstetric and Neonatal Complications: Increased risk of difficult labor, tearing, cesarean section, postpartum hemorrhage, and infant death.
- Gynecological Problems: Genital damage, infections, and menstrual issues are common.
- Urological Issues: Urinary tract infections and difficulties urinating are frequent.
- Sexual Health Challenges: Painful intercourse and sexual dysfunction are significant concerns.
- Mental Health Concerns: Higher rates of depression, anxiety, and PTSD are observed.
A large-scale analysis of many studies shows a clear link between FGM and increased health problems. The severity of these problems varies depending on the type of FGM performed. This underscores the need for global efforts to end this harmful practice.
The findings of this study have crucial implications for public health. They can guide the development of better health care and training programs for those affected by FGM and aid in creating effective prevention strategies. It’s time to take action against FGM.