Six health risks associated with female genital mutilation #
Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) is a harmful and dangerous practice that involves the partial or total removal of the external female genitalia. It is considered a violation of human rights and is illegal in many countries. Here are six health risks associated with FGM:
- Severe Bleeding and Infection: FGM can cause severe bleeding and infection due to the trauma inflicted on the genital area. In some cases, the infection can be life-threatening.
- Chronic Pain: FGM can cause chronic pain, including pain during sexual intercourse, urination, and menstruation. This pain can be debilitating and affect a woman's quality of life.
- Urinary Tract Infections: FGM can cause urinary tract infections (UTIs) due to the narrowing of the urinary opening and the creation of a scarred and inflamed area. UTIs can lead to kidney damage and other complications if left untreated.
- Complications during Childbirth: FGM can increase the risk of complications during childbirth, including prolonged labor, obstructed labor, and the need for cesarean sections. This can lead to maternal and fetal mortality.
- Emotional Trauma: FGM can cause emotional trauma, including anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). The experience of FGM can be traumatic and affect a woman's mental health and well-being.
- Long-term Complications: FGM can lead to long-term complications, including:
- Infertility: FGM can cause infertility due to the damage inflicted on the reproductive organs.
- Pelvic organ prolapse: FGM can cause the pelvic organs to prolapse, leading to symptoms such as urinary incontinence and pelvic pain.
- Sexual dysfunction: FGM can cause sexual dysfunction, including pain during sexual intercourse and decreased sexual satisfaction.
It is essential to note that FGM is a violation of human rights and is illegal in many countries. It is crucial to raise awareness about the harmful effects of FGM and to support efforts to eradicate this practice.