OUSA

OUSA

2/7/2025, 7:31:32 PM

Effects of Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) Female genital mutilation (FGM) is a deeply harmful practice that affects millions of women and girls worldwide. The effects are multifaceted, impacting physical health, psychological well-being, and social dynamics. Here’s an in-depth discussion of these effects: Severe Pain- The procedure often involves cutting and removal of genital tissue, leading to intense pain. Excessive Bleeding- Hemorrhage is common, which can be life-threatening. Infection-Unsterilized instruments can introduce infections, including tetanus and other serious conditions. Urinary Problems Swelling and scarring can lead to difficulties in urination. Many women experience ongoing pain in the genital area. Scarring and Tissue Damage-This can lead to complications in sexual function and childbirth. Childbirth Complications- FGM increases the risk of obstructed labor, which can endanger both mother and child. Sexual Dysfunction- Women may experience pain during intercourse, reduced sexual satisfaction, or other sexual health issue. Anxiety and Depression- Many women suffer from anxiety, depression, and feelings of isolation due to their experiences. Post-Traumatic Stress The trauma of undergoing FGM can lead to PTSD, characterized by flashbacks and severe emotional distress. Gender Inequality-FGM is often rooted in cultural beliefs that view women as inferior, perpetuating gender discrimination. Social Pressure:Women may feel compelled to conform to cultural norms, leading to a cycle of abuse and compliance. Difficulties in Sexual Relationships- Physical complications can hinder intimacy and create strain in relationships. Marital Issues:Partners may struggle with the emotional and physical repercussions of FGM, leading to conflicts. Health Risks -Increased Risk of STIs - Women who have undergone FGM may face a higher risk of sexually transmitted infections, including HIV, due to changes in genital anatomy and hygiene practices The effects of FGM are profound and far-reaching, affecting not only the individual but also families and communities. Combating this practice requires a multifaceted approach, including education, advocacy, community engagement, and legal reforms to protect the rights of women and girls. Efforts must focus on raising awareness about the harmful effects of FGM and promoting alternative rites of passage that respect cultural traditions without causing harm. Hinkutina Qubithinkabina Bayyahamtu irrabaa Best regards "Sir boru"

OUSA

2/7/2025, 7:31:38 PM

Scarred for Life (Female Genital Mutilation) "You are now going to be inducted into the full grown women group, Yemisi's grand mother said, leaning on a wooden stick that supports her locomotion. Yemisi was tightly held by three other women, one had a rusted knives, sharpened snail scales, and razor in an shallow earthen pot, she was respected in the community and popular in the community, she's the Oloola. Yemisi who just turned 13 saw her first period some days ago and had ran to her grand mother so she could explain what was happening to her, but when the old woman saw her, she said in her mind "it is time, the girl is finally becoming a woman and if she's not mutilated it is going to make her promiscuous.". Yemisi's mom had died five days after she gave birth to Yemisi from complications that has risen from delayed child birth. "Even your mom was circumscised, it is our way of life that was why she was not seen running around from one man to another after she married your dad" one of the other three women interjected, trying to convince her to keep calm and accept to be mutilated. "Please let me go," Yemisi screamed with tears and mucous running into her mouth. Her father had told her of the pain her mom went through and what led to her death. The complications that arose during her birth was due to this act her grand mother want her to go through, but now with her father dieing a year ago, she no longer have anyone to speak and protect her. "There's this culture that our people have, when a woman gets to a specific age she's taken to the Oloola for "idabe, never accept that mark no matter what happens, it is not what makes one a full woman rather it creates pains that could lead to unending trauma through out a woman's life and even death." "Lay her down," the grandmother commanded, how can this small girl be stronger than all of us". Some banana leaves had been spread on the ground where she's to be laid for the cutting and the white wrapper that she was supposed to tie for the process, she had flung some meters away, when she was told to remove her clothes and tie the wrapper around her waist. What would Yemisi's fate be? On this international day of Zero Tolerance for FGM, I join the call for a Nigeria free from all forms of violence against women. ©Zack Onwe

OUSA

2/7/2025, 7:32:11 PM

Hopeless Girl Child https://shambaroismail.wordpress.com/2019/11/08/hopeless-girl-child/