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Female genital mutilation
Last reviewed: 04.07.2025
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Female genital mutilation is routinely practiced in parts of Africa (usually North or Central Africa), where it is deeply ingrained as part of some cultures. Women who experience sexual pleasure are considered uncontrollable, shunned, and unmarriageable.
The average age at which girls undergo the operation is 7 years old, and the procedure is performed without anesthesia. Mutilation may be limited to partial removal of the clitoris. Infibulation, an extreme form, involves the removal of the clitoris and labia, after which the remaining tissue is usually stitched together, leaving only an opening (1-2 cm) for menstrual flow and urine. The legs are often tied together and left that way for weeks after the procedure. Traditionally, women who have undergone infibulation have their stitches cut on their wedding night.
Complications of female genital mutilation may include intraoperative or postoperative bleeding and infection (including tetanus). Women who have undergone infibulation are likely to have recurrent urinary tract infections, genital infections, scarring, increased susceptibility to AIDS, and childbirth may result in fatal hemorrhage. Psychological consequences may be severe.
Female genital mutilation may be becoming less common due to the influence of religious leaders who have spoken out against the practice, as well as growing resistance in some communities.
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