Female Genital Mutilation
ABSTRACT: 4 to 5 million girls are at risk for Female Genital Mutilation every year and is shown to have negative consequences on the child’s physical and psychological well being, as well as increase behavioral problems. Many myths surround FGM and may perpetuate the cycle. FGM has been abolished on the federal level in the United States, however is still legal in many African and Middle Eastern countries. Every year approximately 4 to 5 million young girls and infants will have been circumcised through a process called Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) (AAP, 1998). It is believed that as of 1998, 137 million women had undergone this procedure, with several more girls at risk (Bosch, 2001). The purpose of this paper is to discuss what takes place during the actual procedure of FGM and how FGM harms a child both physically and psychologically. The common myths and laws surrounding FGM are also discussed. FGM is practiced in both developed and undeveloped countries. As recently as the 1940’s, FGM was being performed on girls in the United States for a variety of conditions, such as frequent masturbation, lesbianism, and h . . .
Immediate threats to the child’s health may include, but are not limited to hemorrhage, shock, tetanus, septicemia, infection, gangrene, and even death (AAP 1998, Epstein 2001, Sarkis 2001). Female Genital Mutilation (RE9749). Female Genital Mutilation: A Prospective View. It is also believed to be more hygienic and increases the beauty of the genitalia (Epstein, 2001). It is also believed to make conception easier. Retrieved October 2, 2002 from the World Wide Web: http://www. Discussion Current practices of FGM violate a child’s right to be free of physical and psychological trauma and this fact is being more highly recognized by medical professionals and governments. Female Genital Cutting: Frequently Asked Questions. Although the psychological impact is not well understood by the medical community, girls who have undergone FGM describe extreme terror of being seized during the actual circumcision and not being able to help themselves (AAP, 1998). Justification for FGM varies, but most cultures that practice FGM commonly share the belief than an uncircumcised girl is dirty and unsuitable for marriage. Journal of Sex & Marital Therapy, 27, 459-464.
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