Clitoridectomy and Female Genital Mutilation (FGM): Health Consequences and Human Rights

Definition

Clitoridectomy (partial or total removal of the clitoral glans) is a form of Female Genital Mutilation (FGM). WHO classifies FGM into four types; clitoridectomy corresponds to Type I.

Health Consequences

• Immediate: Severe pain, hemorrhage, infection, shock, death.
• Long-term: Chronic pain, dyspareunia, anorgasmia, recurrent UTIs, cysts, keloids, obstetric complications (prolonged labor, tearing), psychological trauma (PTSD, anxiety, depression).

Prevalence and Drivers

Concentrated in parts of Africa, Middle East, Asia. Drivers: social norms, marriageability, misconceptions about hygiene/religion. No religious text mandates FGM.

Global Response

• UN, WHO, UNICEF: FGM is a human rights violation.
• Many countries have criminalized FGM.
• Elimination strategies: community education, engagement of religious leaders, legal enforcement, support for survivors.

Eradication requires culturally sensitive, multi-sectoral efforts.