Female genital mutilation
Female genital mutilation is also called female circumcision.
Female genital mutilation can be done in different ways:
- Partly or totally removing the visible part of the clitoris (type 1);
- Partly or totally removing the visible part of the clitoris and the labia (type 2);
- Sewing together the labia so that there is only a small opening through which urine and blood can leave the body (type 3).
- All other harmful acts to the visible sexual organs of the woman, such as pricking, piercing, incising, scraping and cauterisation.
Female genital mutilation is done for cultural reasons.
Woman lying down with her legs spread. The focus is on the visible sexual organs.
A woman’s visible sexual organs are: 1. outer labia, 2. inner labia, 3. opening of the vagina, 4.clitoris. The urinary meatus (5) and anus (6) are not part of the sexual organs.
Female genital mutilation - Type 1: visible part of the clitoris is removed.
Female genital mutilation - Type 2: labia are removed.
Female genital mutilation - Type 3: labia are sewn together.
Female genital mutilation is very dangerous for the health of women and girls. Some can die due to the amount of blood loss. It can also lead to:
- anxiety, stress, trauma and sometimes even shock;
- infections and diseases;
- pain during menstruation and while urinating;
- a higher risk of STIs and HIV;
- painful and complicated delivery for both mother and child;
- infertility;
- painful intercourse and less sexual desire.
Female genital mutilation is illegal in Europe. It is forbidden by law.
If you have undergone female genital mutilation or you fear that this will be done to you, contact a specialised organisation. They will be able to help you.