Female Genital Mutilation
Female genital mutilation (FGM) is a major human right issue that affects girls and women around the world recognized by the United Nations. At least 200 million girls and women in 30 countries have been subjected to FGM. In most of the countries, the majority of the girls were mutilated before the age of 5.
FGM includes all procedures that cause any injury to the female genital organs for non-medical reasons. FGM is most common in Africa and a few countries in Asia and the Middle East. As a result of migration women and girls with or are at risk for FGM are also present in Europe. FGM is deeply rooted within culture and tradition. Attitudes towards FGM are changing very slowly.
FGM is recognized as a violation of the basic human rights of girls and women.
FGM has no health benefits. On the contrary, FGM-practices have only negative consequences, including affecting the reproductive health of girls and women.
The preconception period is an opportunity for health-care providers to assess women and to deliver care, support and correct information. It is part of their task to support girls and women seeking care, to provide them with the best possible clinical care and not to cause them any further harm.
More information: https://www.arrow.org.my/on-female-genital-mutilation-and-circumcision-fgm/
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