Female genital mutilation (FGM) is a practice involving the partial or total removal of external female genitalia for non-medical reasons. It's prevalent in various African tribes, each with distinct methods and cultural significance.
Type I: Clitoridectomy
Definition: Partial or total removal of the clitoral glans (the visible part of the clitoris).
Examples of practice:
Ethiopia (Oromo communities): The procedure often involves excising the clitoral tip with a small blade or knife. It is performed on young girls, usually before puberty.
West African countries (e.g., Nigeria): Among some ethnic groups, clitoridectomy is seen as a rite of passage into womanhood.
Health impacts: Can lead to reduced sexual sensitivity, infections, and scarring.
Type II: Excision
Definition: Removal of the clitoral glans and the labia minora, with or without the labia majora.
Examples of practice:
Malian Tribes: In rural Mali, this practice is conducted using basic tools such as razors or knives. Mothers or grandmothers often oversee the process.
Sierra Leone (Temne people): Excision is part of initiation ceremonies for girls, symbolizing their readiness for marriage.
Health impacts: Increased risk of infections, prolonged bleeding, childbirth complications, and reduced sexual function.
Type III: Infibulation
Definition: Narrowing of the vaginal opening by cutting and repositioning the labia, with or without removing the clitoris. The vulva is sewn shut, leaving a small hole for bodily functions.
Examples of practice:
Somali communities: This type is the most prevalent form of FGM here. Girls as young as five undergo the procedure, which is often done in non-medical settings.
Sudanese ethnic groups (e.g., Nubians): The practice is deeply rooted in cultural beliefs around female purity and marriageability.
Health impacts: This type has the most severe consequences, including chronic pain, urinary retention, recurrent infections, and major complications during childbirth.
Type IV: Other Harmful Practices
Definition: All other non-medical modifications to female genitalia, such as pricking, piercing, incising, scraping, and cauterization.
Examples of practice:
Kenyan tribes (e.g., Kikuyu): In some cases, pricking or nicking the clitoris replaces more invasive forms of FGM as a compromise between tradition and law.
Chad and Central African Republic: Girls undergo rituals where genitalia are scraped or cauterized to mark cultural identity.
Health impacts: These practices can still cause infections, scarring, and emotional distress.
These practices vary in method and severity but share significant health risks. Understanding the specific types and their cultural contexts can help in addressing FGM more effectively.