Discussion 1
Why female genital cutting is still a practice and existed in other countries?
How do you prevent this old way, what are some of the health concerns about this issue? Let’s focus on middle eastern countries that still recommend this tradition to their women.
Discussion: Female Genital Cutting in Middle Eastern Countries
Continuation of the Practice
Female Genital Cutting (FGC), also known as Female Genital Mutilation (FGM), persists in various regions due to a complex interplay of cultural, social, and religious factors. In many Middle Eastern countries, FGC is deeply rooted in tradition and is often perceived as a rite of passage, a prerequisite for marriage, or a means to ensure a woman’s purity and honor. These cultural norms are reinforced by societal pressures and the desire to conform to established customs. Additionally, misconceptions about religious obligations contribute to the perpetuation of FGC, although no major religion explicitly mandates the practice.
FGC is often seen as a way to control women’s sexuality, ensuring their chastity and fidelity. In communities where female virginity before marriage is highly valued, FGC is believed to reduce sexual desire and prevent premarital sexual activity. This practice is often upheld by older generations, who view it as a necessary tradition to maintain social cohesion and cultural identity.
Health Concerns
FGC has severe short-term and long-term health consequences. Immediate complications include intense pain, excessive bleeding, infections, and even death due to hemorrhage or septic shock. The procedure is typically performed under unsanitary conditions by untrained practitioners using non-sterile instruments, exacerbating the risk of infections such as tetanus and HIV.
Long-term health issues are equally concerning. Women who undergo FGC often suffer from chronic pain, urinary problems, cysts, and increased risk of childbirth complications. The psychological impact is profound, leading to post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, depression, and sexual dysfunction. FGC can result in difficulties during menstruation, intercourse, and childbirth, severely affecting a woman’s quality of life and reproductive health.
Prevention Strategies
Preventing FGC requires a multifaceted approach that addresses cultural, social, and educational aspects. Key strategies include:
- Education and Awareness: Educating communities about the harmful effects of FGC and challenging the myths surrounding the practice is crucial. Public health campaigns should involve community leaders, religious figures, and survivors of FGC to convey the message effectively. Schools can play a significant role in teaching young girls and boys about the importance of bodily autonomy and the health risks associated with FGC.
- Legal Frameworks: Strengthening and enforcing laws that criminalize FGC is essential. Governments should collaborate with international organizations to ensure that legal measures are in place to protect women and girls from this practice. Training law enforcement and judicial personnel to handle FGC cases sensitively and effectively is also important.
- Healthcare Interventions: Healthcare providers should be trained to recognize and manage complications arising from FGC and provide appropriate care and counseling to affected women. Integrating FGC prevention and treatment into primary healthcare services can help reach more individuals at risk.
- Community Engagement: Engaging communities in dialogue about FGC and its consequences can lead to a shift in attitudes. Programs that promote alternative rites of passage and celebrate cultural identity without harming girls can be effective. Empowering women through education and economic opportunities can also reduce the pressure to conform to traditional practices.
- International Cooperation: Collaboration with international organizations such as the World Health Organization (WHO) and the United Nations (UN) can provide technical support, resources, and advocacy to combat FGC. Sharing successful strategies and best practices across countries can enhance the effectiveness of prevention efforts.
Conclusion
FGC remains a significant issue in many Middle Eastern countries due to deep-seated cultural, social, and religious factors. Addressing this practice requires a comprehensive approach that includes education, legal reforms, healthcare interventions, community engagement, and international cooperation. By raising awareness and promoting alternative traditions, it is possible to protect the health and rights of women and girls and move towards the eradication of FGC.