Female Genital Mutilation

Silent Reproductive Health Struggles

16DaysOfActivism, Child Labour, Child Trafficking, ChildNotBride, Community Development, Cultural practices in Africa, End FGM, Female Genital Mutilation, Female Roles in Nation Building, Gender, Gender Based Violence, Gender Equality, Health, Health Communication, Hygiene, Menstrual Health and Hygiene, Reproductive Health, Speak Wednesday, Stop FGM, Suicide Prevention, Teenage Pregnancy, VVF, WHO, Women, Women Education /

Women’s reproductive health is fundamental to their overall well-being, yet millions of women globally and in Nigeria face persistent, often silent challenges that compromise their health, autonomy, and quality of life [1]. Despite progress in some areas, vast inequities remain in access to services, information, and rights leaving many women vulnerable to preventable health problems [2].

One of the major silent struggles is limited access to essential reproductive health services, including family planning, maternal care, and safe delivery support. In sub-Saharan Africa, one in four women who wish to delay or stop childbearing do not use any contraceptive method, reflecting gaps in availability, choice, and quality of reproductive care [1][5]. These shortfalls contribute to high rates of unintended pregnancies, unsafe abortions, and increased maternal morbidity and mortality. Globally, about 800 women die each day from pregnancy-related causes, many of which are preventable with proper services and support [1].

In Nigeria, reproductive health disparities are stark. A survey of reproductive health concerns found that sexual health, contraception, infections, fertility issues, and reproductive cancers were among the most pressing worries for women, indicating broad unmet needs across the reproductive spectrum [3]. Despite various policies, only a few Nigerian states meet benchmarks for women’s participation in decisions about their sexual and reproductive health, reflecting systemic barriers rooted in socio-cultural norms and limited autonomy [4]. Economic challenges also contribute, with millions of women lacking access to modern contraceptives and comprehensive family planning services due to cost, misinformation, fear of side effects, cultural opposition, and weak health systems [5][6].

Another under-recognized struggle is infertility, which affects a significant portion of women yet remains stigmatized and poorly supported. Recent WHO guidance highlights infertility as a major public health concern, with more than one in six people of reproductive age affected [7]. Access to affordable fertility evaluation and treatment is limited in many countries, forcing women to choose between financial hardship and their desire for children [7].

Maternal health remains a critical issue. Globally, approximately 287,000 women die yearly from complications in pregnancy and childbirth, with nearly all these deaths occurring in low- and middle-income settings where health systems are weak and resources scarce [1]. In areas affected by conflict or economic strain, such as parts of northern Nigeria, women face even greater risks due to disrupted services, insecurity, and collapsed care infrastructure [8].

The impact of these struggles extends beyond physical health. When women cannot access respectful, quality reproductive care, the consequences ripple into social and economic domains limiting educational opportunities, reducing workforce participation, and perpetuating cycles of poverty and inequality [2].

Improving women’s reproductive health requires a holistic approach that ensures affordable and accessible services such as contraception, antenatal care, skilled delivery, and emergency support reach even the most underserved communities [1][5], while also equipping women with accurate, culturally sensitive information to make informed choices about their bodies and health [2]. At the same time, policies must actively protect women’s autonomy and reproductive rights by challenging harmful norms and discrimination [2][4], supported by strong, well-funded health systems with trained personnel to guarantee continuity of care, especially in fragile settings [1][8]. Integrating affordable infertility care and psychosocial support into routine reproductive health services is also essential to address the often hidden emotional and social burdens many women silently endure [7].

Speak Wednesday is an initiative of CFHI to address issues around gender-base violence and gender-bias.

References

  1. WHO Regional Office for Africa. Women’s Health. Available from: https://www.afro.who.int/health-topics/womens-health
  2. United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA). New UNFPA report finds 30 years of progress in sexual and reproductive health has mostly ignored the most marginalized communities. Available from: https://www.unfpa.org/press/new-unfpa-report-finds-30-years-progress-sexual-and-reproductive-health-has-mostly-ignored
  3. Sa’adatu TS, Dieng B, Danmadami AM. Reproductive health issues of concern among Nigerians: an online survey. Int J Community Med Public Health. Available from: https://doi.org/10.18203/2394-6040.ijcmph20234114
  4. Premium Times Nigeria. Only eight Nigerian states meet women’s health benchmark – Report. Available from: https://www.premiumtimesng.com/news/top-news/830200-only-eight-nigerian-states-meet-womens-health-benchmark-report.html
  5. World Health Organization. Sexual and Reproductive Health and Research (SRH): Family planning and contraception. Available from: https://www.who.int/teams/sexual-and-reproductive-health-and-research-%28srh%29
  6. Ballard Brief. Barriers to Family Planning for Women in West Africa. Available from: https://ballardbrief.byu.edu/issue-briefs/barriers-to-family-planning-for-women-in-west-africa
  7. WHO releases first global guideline on infertility care. Reddit; 2025. Available from: https://www.reddit.com/r/EmbryologyIVFSupport/comments/1pcjrzh/who_releases_first_global_guideline_on/
  8. AP News. Pregnancy has become a nightmare for many women in Nigeria’s conflict-hit north. Available from: https://apnews.com/article/c5846961ed87cddd8a24d1c2b04564a0

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Cervical Cancer: What Every Woman Should Know

Cancer, Community Development, Cultural practices in Africa, Female Genital Mutilation, Female Roles in Nation Building, Gender, Gender Based Violence, Gender Equality, Girl Education, Health, Menstrual Health and Hygiene, Monday Health Burst, Stop FGM, VVF, WHO, Women, Women Education /

Cervical cancer remains a significant public health concern for women both globally and in Nigeria, yet it is largely preventable and treatable when detected early. Understanding its causes, risk factors, prevention strategies, and interventions is critical for improving women’s health outcomes. Cervical cancer develops in the cervix, the lower part of the uterus that connects to the vagina and is one of the most common cancers affecting women worldwide. In 2022, an estimated 660,000 new cervical cancer cases were reported globally, with about 350,000 deaths attributed to the disease, largely in low- and middle-income countries due to disparities in prevention and care access [1].

Almost all cervical cancers, over 99%, are caused by persistent infection with high-risk types of Human Papillomavirus (HPV), a sexually transmitted virus. While most HPV infections are naturally cleared by the immune system, persistent infection with oncogenic HPV types, particularly HPV 16 and 18, can lead to abnormal cell changes and eventual cancer over many years if not identified and treated [2]. Beyond HPV infection, several factors increase the risk of cervical cancer in women. HIV infection and weakened immunity accelerate cancer progression [1]. Smoking impairs immune response and promotes cellular changes [3]. Early onset of sexual activity, multiple sexual partners, and long-term use of certain hormonal contraceptives also contribute to heightened risk [4].

Cervical cancer is highly preventable and much more treatable when detected early. HPV vaccination, administered to girls typically aged 9 to 14, is highly effective at preventing infections that cause most cervical cancers [1]. Regular screening through Pap smears or HPV tests allows for the detection of precancerous changes before they progress to cancer, significantly improving treatment outcomes [2]. Despite these preventive measures, in Nigeria, cervical cancer remains the second most frequent cancer among women and a leading cause of cancer-related death [5]. Awareness and screening uptake are low, particularly in rural areas, due to financial barriers, limited access to screening facilities, and insufficient information about prevention [6].

To further reduce the burden of cervical cancer, it is essential to scale up HPV vaccination campaigns targeting adolescent girls before exposure to the virus, expand the availability and affordability of cervical cancer screening at primary healthcare levels, and strengthen health education to promote understanding of cervical health through sustained community engagement. Addressing gender and social barriers that limit women’s access to preventive care is also critical. Cervical cancer should not be a life sentence. With knowledge, preventive action, and supportive community health services, every woman can protect her health and future.

References

  1. World Health Organization. Human papillomavirus (HPV) and cervical cancer fact sheet. Dec 2025. Available from: https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/human-papillomavirus-%28hpv%29-and-cervical-cancer
  2. World Health Organization. Cervical cancer prevention, diagnosis, and screening overview. Available from: https://www.who.int/cancer/prevention/diagnosis-screening/cervical-cancer/en/
  3. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Cervical Cancer Risk Factors. Available from: https://www.cdc.gov/cervical-cancer/risk-factors/index.html
  4. National Cancer Institute. Cervical Cancer Causes, Risk Factors, and Prevention. Available from: https://www.cancer.gov/types/cervical/causes-risk-prevention
  5. World Health Organization Regional Office for Africa. Cervical cancer early detection saves lives (Nigeria). Available from: https://www.afro.who.int/countries/nigeria/news/cervical-cancer-early-detection-saves-lives
  6. The Guardian (Nigeria). Screening, awareness gaps slow cervical cancer elimination. Available from: https://guardian.ng/features/health/screening-awareness-gaps-slow-cervical-cancer-elimination/

 

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MONDAY HEALTH BURST ON HEALTH RISKS ASSOCIATED WITH FEMALE GENITAL MUTILATION

Female Genital Mutilation /

Last week, we explored the Impact of Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) on Reproductive Health, shedding light on how this practice affects women’s reproductive systems and their overall well-being. This week’s article serves as a continuation, delving deeper into the immediate and long-term health risks associated with FGM.

Immediate Health Risks

  1. Severe Pain and Shock: The procedure is often performed without anesthesia, causing unbearable pain and trauma, which can lead to shock and, in extreme cases, death.
  2. Excessive Bleeding (Hemorrhage): Due to the crude instruments used, excessive bleeding is a common complication, which can result in fatal blood loss.
  3. Infections: Unhygienic conditions and unsterilized tools increase the risk of infections, including tetanus and sepsis.
  4. Urinary Complications: Swelling and damage to the urethra can lead to painful urination and urinary retention.
  5. Death: A combination of severe bleeding, shock, and infections can result in the immediate death of the victim.

Long-Term Health Consequences

  1. Chronic Pain: Scar tissue and nerve damage often result in persistent pain and discomfort.
  2. Menstrual Problems: Obstruction caused by scar tissue can lead to painful and irregular menstrual cycles.
  3. Increased Risk of Infections: FGM increases susceptibility to recurrent urinary tract infections (UTIs) and sexually transmitted infections (STIs), including HIV.
  4. Complications in Childbirth: Women who have undergone FGM face a higher risk of prolonged labor, obstructed childbirth, postpartum hemorrhage, and stillbirth.
  5. Sexual Dysfunction: The removal of sensitive genital tissues reduces sexual pleasure and can lead to painful intercourse, negatively impacting intimate relationships.
  6. Psychological and Emotional Trauma: Victims of FGM often suffer from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), depression, anxiety, and a sense of loss.

Female Genital Mutilation remains a grave violation of human rights with devastating health consequences. Eradicating this practice demands a collaborative effort from governments, health organizations, community leaders, and activists. Education, awareness campaigns, and the empowerment of women and girls are crucial in ending FGM and protecting future generations from its harmful effects.

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SPEAK WEDNESDAY ON FEMALE GENITAL MUTILATION: A TRADITION OF HARM

2 Comments / Female Genital Mutilation, Women /

Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) remains a widespread practice in Nigeria, performed under the guise of tradition, cultural pride, or morality. It involves the partial or total removal of external female genitalia for non-medical reasons, often carried out on young girls with crude tools and no anaesthesia.

FGM is deeply harmful, leading to immediate risks such as excessive bleeding, infections, and even death. Survivors often face long-term health complications, including chronic pain, difficulty during childbirth, and psychological trauma. Despite no medical benefits, it persists in many Nigerian communities, particularly in the South-South, South-East, and South-West regions. According to the National Demographic and Health Survey, nearly 20% of Nigerian women aged 15–49 have undergone FGM.

Why Does It Continue?

FGM persists due to:

  • Cultural and Social Norms: Many believe it ensures purity or prepares girls for marriage.
  • Patriarchy: It reinforces control over women’s bodies.
  • Economic Motives: Traditional practitioners depend on it for income.

Although Nigeria criminalized FGM under the Violence Against Persons Prohibition (VAPP) Act, 2015, enforcement is weak, especially in rural areas. Advocacy groups and survivors are leading education campaigns to challenge myths, empower women, and engage traditional leaders in changing harmful norms.

Ending FGM requires stronger legal enforcement, education, and accessible healthcare for survivors. Community-driven initiatives must replace harmful practices with traditions that celebrate and uplift women.

FGM is not just a cultural practice; it is a form of violence. By confronting its roots and empowering communities, Nigeria can protect future generations from this harmful tradition.

Speak Wednesday is an initiative of CFHI to address issues around gender-based violence and gender bias.

#SpeakWednesday #EndFGM #GenderEquality #StopGBV #ProtectOurGirls #BreakTheSilence

 

References:

  • National Population Commission (NPC) and ICF. (2019). Nigeria Demographic and Health Survey 2018. Abuja, Nigeria, and Rockville, Maryland, USA.
  • United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA). (2023). “Female Genital Mutilation in Nigeria.”
  • Federal Government of Nigeria. Violence Against Persons Prohibition Act, 2015.

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IMPACT OF FGM ON GIRLS AND WOMEN IN THE SOCIETY

Female Genital Mutilation, Gender Based Violence /

The Centre for Family Health Initiative (CFHI) stands in solidarity with worldwide efforts aimed at eliminating FGM in commemoration of the International Day of Zero Tolerance for Female Genital Mutilation (FGM).

Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) is a form of gender-based violence that has plagued women and girls for centuries. It is internationally denounced as a breach of the fundamental human rights of girls and women. The United Nations reports that over 200 million girls and women currently alive have been subjected to FGM.1 Alarmingly, in the year 2024 alone, approximately 4.4 million girls—or more than 12,000 daily—are at imminent risk of undergoing FGM across the globe.2

Proponents of FGM often defend the practice by citing cultural traditions, alleging that it curtails female sexuality and preserves virginity before marriage. Others mistakenly believe that FGM offers hygienic benefits, reduces promiscuity, modifies socio-sexual behaviour, promotes fertility, and even augments marriage prospects.

However, research and studies unequivocally demonstrate that FGM offers no health advantages to girls or women. On the contrary, those subjected to FGM experience immediate complications such as intense pain, shock, excessive bleeding, infection, and difficulties urinating. The long-term repercussions are equally dire, adversely affecting their sexual, reproductive, and mental health. These findings underscore the fact that FGM is a cultural practice deeply rooted in gender inequality, as highlighted by the United Nations.

The persistence of FGM underscores the critical need for comprehensive education and community engagement to dismantle myths surrounding the practice and promote gender equality. Empowering girls and women through education, providing support to communities in transitioning away from FGM, and enforcing legal frameworks that protect the rights of girls and women are vital steps towards eradicating FGM.

As we observe the International Day of Zero Tolerance for Female Genital Mutilation, CFHI echoes the call for a united action by the government, organisations, stakeholders, and individuals in the fight against FGM. It is imperative to listen to and amplify the voices of girls and women affected by FGM, to ensure their rights are protected, and to work tirelessly towards a future where every girl can grow up free from the threat of gender-based violence.

Her voice. Her future. Let’s End FGM Today.

Speak Wednesday is an initiative of CFHI to address issues around gender-based violence and gender bias.

.1. United Nations_Female Genital Mutilation Day Observance
.2. UNFPA_International Day of Zero Tolerance Female Genital Mutilation

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HEALTH IMPLICATIONS OF FEMALE GENITAL MUTILATION

Cultural practices in Africa, End FGM, Female Genital Mutilation, Monday Health Burst /

Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) is a harmful traditional practice that involves altering or injuring the female genitalia for non-medical reasons.1 This practice, prevalent in many cultures around the world, has severe health implications for women and girls who undergo it. From physical to psychological consequences, FGM leaves a lasting impact on the well-being of individuals subjected to it. Some of the health implications include:

Immediate Complications: FGM can result in severe pain, bleeding, and shock immediately following the procedure. In some cases, it can even lead to death due to excessive bleeding or infections.

Long-term Health Issues: Women and girls who undergo FGM may face long-term health problems such as chronic pain, infections, urinary problems, and complications during childbirth. Scar tissue formation and damage to the reproductive organs can cause difficulties in sexual intercourse and menstruation.

Increased Risk of Infections: The practice of FGM often involves using unsterilized tools or performing the procedure in unsanitary conditions, leading to an increased risk of infections such as tetanus, HIV/AIDS, and hepatitis B and C.

Trauma and Psychological Distress: The experience of undergoing FGM can cause significant trauma and psychological distress, leading to anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). The violation of bodily integrity and the associated pain can have long-lasting effects on mental well-being.

Interference with Sexual Functioning: FGM can interfere with sexual functioning and intimacy, causing pain during intercourse and reducing sexual pleasure. This can strain relationships and have negative effects on overall quality of life.

The health implications of FGM are profound and multifaceted, encompassing physical, psychological, and social dimensions. Efforts to address FGM must take a comprehensive approach, including education, advocacy, and support for affected individuals, as well as community engagement and legal reforms to eradicate this harmful practice and uphold the rights and dignity of women and girls.

Over the years, CFHI has observed the International Day of Zero Tolerance for Female Genital Mutilation as part of its own efforts to curb Female Genital Mutilation (FGM). A notable aspect of it was the celebration held at the St. Theresa Catholic church in Anurie Omanze, Idu LGA, Imo state, wherein the community was made aware of the importance of achieving zero FGM records. Over 100 participants were reached and they all pledged to join the movement.

Monday Health Burst is an initiative of CFHI to address issues of basic health concern. Join us every Monday on all our social media platforms for more episodes.

.1. World Health Organization_Female Genital Mutilation

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SPEAK WEDNESDAY ON THE IMPACT OF FGM ON GIRLS’ REPRODUCTIVE RIGHTS

End FGM, Female Genital Mutilation, Gender, Gender Based Violence, Gender Equality /

I could barely walk after the cut. My mother and the old woman who helped to hold me down during the process tried to help me up, but I collapsed. I almost bled to death. ~ FGM Survivor

Female Genital Mutilation is a form of gender-based violence that girls have suffered for ages. It has been recognized internationally as a violation of the reproductive rights of girls and women.

FGM can be described as the practice of the partial or total removal of the external genital organs in young girls and women. This procedure predominantly occurs in females from infancy to adolescence, and sometimes in adult women. This procedure is carried out by a religious leader, elder, or amateur medical practitioner using a razor or a sharp glass.

The fact that there are no health benefits of FGM but harm cannot be overemphasized.

The World Health Organization states that girls who undergo the practice of FGM run the immediate risk of hemorrhage, excruciating pain, fever, genital tissue swelling, infections like tetanus, urinary problems, problems with wound healing, shock, and death.

Due to their lack of knowledge about the act’s effects, girls and women who undergo FGM run a higher risk of developing accumulated life-long health issues that may not be discovered immediately after the cut. The long-term side effects also include a higher risk of complications during childbirth and urinary, vaginal, menstrual, and scar tissue issues. It is pertinent to note that all forms and types of FGM can result in immediate or long-term health complications, and a victim can suffer multiple complications.

To this extent, research has unquestionably demonstrated that FGM is only connected to endangering the well-being of women and girls, with consequences that may last a lifetime.

The Convention on the Rights of the Child (Article 24 (3)) mandates states to abolish traditional practices prejudicial to children’s health. Therefore, it is urgent to step up efforts to end FGM, educate the general public about the health effects of FGM, and provide medical help to victims of FGM.

FGM is a violation of the reproductive rights of children. Say no to FGM!

Speak Wednesday is an initiative of CFHI to address issues around gender-based violence and gender bias.
#SpeakWednesday # FGM #EndFGM #ChildHealth #ChildRights #GenderStereotype #GenderBias #GenderInequality

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MONDAY HEALTH BURST

Female Genital Mutilation, Gender, Health, Health Communication, HIV/AIDS, Hygiene, Mental Health, Monday Health Burst, Stop FGM, Women's Rights /

EFFECTS OF FEMALE GENITAL MUTILATION (FGM)

According to World Health Organization, more than 200 million girls and women alive today have undergone female genital mutilation (FGM) in 30 countries in Africa, mostly in the Middle East and Asia. All forms of FGM are associated with increased health risk in the short- and long-term. Below are some of the health risks.

Short-term health risks of FGM

Severe pain. Cutting the nerve ends and sensitive genital tissue causes extreme pain. The healing period is also painful.

Shock. Can be caused by pain, infection and/or haemorrhage.

Genital tissue swelling. Due to inflammatory response or local infection.

Infections. May spread after the use of contaminated instruments (e.g. use of same instruments in multiple genital mutilation operations), and during the healing period.

Excessive bleeding (haemorrhage). Can result if the clitoral artery or other blood vessel is cut.

Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). The direct association between FGM and HIV remains unconfirmed, although the cutting of genital tissues with the same surgical instrument without sterilization could increase the risk for transmission of HIV between girls who undergo female genital mutilation together.

Urination problems. These may include urinary retention and pain passing urine. This may be due to tissue swelling, pain or injury to the urethra.

Impaired wound healing. Can lead to pain, infections and abnormal scarring.

Death. Death can result from infections, including tetanus, as well as haemorrhage that can lead to shock.

Mental health problems. The pain, shock and the use of physical force during the event, as well as a sense of betrayal when family members condone and/or organize the practice, are reasons why many women describe FGM as a traumatic event.

 

Long-term health risks of FGM

Infections:

  • Chronic genital infections. With consequent chronic pain, and vaginal discharge and itching. Cysts, abscesses and genital ulcers may also appear.
  • Chronic reproductive tract infections. May cause chronic back and pelvic pain.
  • Urinary tract infections. If not treated, such infections can ascend to the kidneys, potentially resulting in renal failure, septicaemia and death. An increased risk of repeated urinary tract infections is well documented in both girls and adult women who have undergone FGM.

Painful urination. Due to obstruction of the urethra and recurrent urinary tract infections.

Vaginal problems. Discharge, itching, bacterial vaginosis and other infections.

Menstrual problems. Obstruction of the vaginal opening may lead to painful menstruation (dysmenorrhea), irregular menses and difficulty in passing menstrual blood, particularly among women with Type III FGM.

Excessive scar tissue (keloids). Excessive scar tissue can form at the site of the cutting.

HIV (Human immunodeficiency virus). Given that the transmission of HIV is facilitated through trauma of the vaginal epithelium which allows the direct introduction of the virus, it is reasonable to presume that the risk of HIV transmission may be increased due to increased risk of bleeding during intercourse, because of FGM.

Sexual health problems. FGM damages anatomic structures that are directly involved in female sexual function and can therefore also influence women’s sexual health and well-being. Removal of, or damage to, highly sensitive genital tissue, especially the clitoris, may affect sexual sensitivity and lead to sexual problems, such as decreased sexual desire and pleasure, pain during sex, difficulty during penetration, decreased lubrication during intercourse, and reduced frequency or absence of orgasm (anorgasmia). Scar formation, pain and traumatic memories associated with the procedure can also lead to such problems.

Childbirth complications (obstetric complications). FGM is associated with an increased risk of caesarean section, postpartum haemorrhage, recourse to episiotomy, difficult labour, obstetric tears/lacerations, instrumental delivery, prolonged labour, and extended maternal hospital stay. The risks increase with the severity of FGM.

Obstetric fistula. A direct association between FGM and obstetric fistula has not been established. However, given the causal relationship between prolonged and obstructed labour and fistula, and the fact that FGM is also associated with prolonged and obstructed labour, it is reasonable to presume that both conditions could be linked in women living with FGM.

Perinatal risks. Obstetric complications can result in a higher incidence of infant resuscitation at delivery and intrapartum stillbirth and neonatal death.

Mental health problems. Studies have shown that girls and women who have undergone FGM are more likely to experience post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety disorders, depression and somatic (physical) complaints (e.g. aches and pains) with no organic cause.

Pain. Due to tissue damage and scarring that may result in trapped or unprotected nerve endings.

Though FGM may be normative and considered to be of cultural significance in some settings, the practice is always a violation of human rights, with the risk of causing trauma and leading to problems related to girls’ and women’s mental health and well-being. (WHO,2020)

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SPEAK WEDNESDAY

16DaysOfActivism, Female Genital Mutilation, Gender, Gender Based Violence, Health /
FEMALE GENITAL MUTILATION AND ITS EFFECTS

“Have you ever heard of Female genital mutilation? The doctor asked me. This was after my over 20 hours of labor, an ordeal which left me depressed for over a month. It took me a while before I responded because it was the least question I ever would imagine answering at such moment.
I had just come out of one of the difficult deliveries he had ever carried out he continued after I replied “yes”. A delivery which at first didn’t seem like I was going to spend more than 6 hours at most because I was 100% effaced and with my labor progression, getting dilated would not be so much of a trouble. After being fully dilated and the baby just wouldn’t come down the delivery canal, an assisted delivery using a vacuum extractor was performed which left me with a vaginal hematoma and still with no baby, I was opted for a caesarean section due to the excessive bleeding and the other effects an obstructed labor has on both mother and unborn child. After all the medical jargons, he finally disclosed I had been genitally mutilated probably as a child and it was the reason for the complications I had just experienced.”

The above near death experience was recounted by Mrs Mary Alex, a human rights activist and a current volunteer at Centre for Family Health Initiative ……….

Female genital mutilation (FGM) is a traditional practice that has no medical benefit and severe health consequences for girls and women. According to Wikipedia, It is a procedure that involves partial or completely removing the external females genitalia or other injury to the female genital organs whenever for non-medical reasons. FGM is recognized internationally as a violation of the human rights of girls and women. It deprives them of the opportunity to make critical and informed decisions about their sexuality. It is an act which is deeply rooted in cultural beliefs and perceptions. Data shows that Nigeria, due to its large population, has the highest number of female genital mutilation (FGM) worldwide. About 20 million women and girls in Nigeria have undergone female genital mutilation which is 10% of the global total.

There are 4 types of FGM; Type I, Type II, Type III and Type IV. Types I and II are most prevalent, but variation exists within countries and communities. Type III is experienced by about 10 per cent of all affected women. FGM has serious implications for the sexual and reproductive health of girls and women. Its effects vary depending on the type performed, the expertise of the practitioner and the conditions under which it is performed. Complications can include severe pain, shock, hemorrhage, infection, urine retention and more. In some cases, hemorrhage and infection can be severe enough to cause death. Long-term risks include complications during childbirth (difficult delivery, excessive bleeding, caesarean section, need to resuscitate the baby, etc.) and newborn deaths; vaginal problems (discharge, itching, bacterial vaginosis and other infections); menstrual problems (painful menstruations, difficulty in passing menstrual blood, etc.); scar tissue and keloid; sexual problems (pain during intercourse, decreased satisfaction, etc.) and psychological problems (depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder, low self-esteem, etc.) among others.

Despite the graveness of the issue, the practicing societies consider it as a necessary part of raising a girl, and a way to prepare her for adulthood and marriage. It is seen as a sure medium to ensure premarital virginity and marital fidelity.
Currently, 13 out of 36 states in Nigeria have their own individual state laws expressly prohibiting FGM/C. These states are Lagos, Osun, Ondo, Ekiti, Bayelsa, Ogun, Delta, Ebonyi, Oyo, Imo, Edo, Cross-River and Rivers. The 2015 Violence Against Persons Prohibition Act (VAPP) acknowledges FGM as a criminal act, however since its enactment, there has been no convictions. Out of the 36 states, only 4 states: Abuja, Anambra, Oyo and Ebonyi have domesticated or actively enforced the law.

Speak Wednesday is an initiative of CFHI to address issues of gender based violence and gender inequality. Join us every Wednesday on all our social media platforms for more episodes.

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