What is Female Genital Mutilation? (FGM)

Female genital mutilation (FGM) is a harmful practice where parts of female genital tissue are intentionally removed or injured for non-medical reasons. It has no health benefits and can cause severe bleeding and difficulties using the bathroom. It can also lead to cysts, infections, problems during childbirth, and higher risks for newborn deaths. It's a dangerous and unnecessary practice that hurts girls and women. It is illegal practice.

What are the consequences?

FGM has no health benefits, and it harms girls and women in many ways. It involves removing and damaging healthy and normal female genital tissue, and it interferes with the natural functions of girls' and women's bodies. Although all forms of FGM are associated with increased risk of health complications, the risk is greater with more severe forms of FGM.

Cultural and social factors for performing FGM

The reasons why FGM is done can be different in various regions and change over time. It's influenced by a mix of cultural and social factors within families and communities.

• When FGM is seen as a normal in a community, people feel a lot of pressure to do it because they don't want to be different or rejected by their community. It's like following a trend that everyone has been following for a long time.
• FGM is often considered a necessary part of raising a girl, and a way to prepare her for adulthood and marriage. They believe it helps keep her pure before marriage and faithful after getting married.
• Some people think FGM is supported by their religion, even though their holy texts don't say anything about it. Different religious leaders have different views on FGM, and some are trying to stop it.