Female Genital Mutilation (FGM)

Health Implications of FGM

FGM has no health benefits and is an extremely harmful practice that always carries devastating short and long-term health consequences for women and girls.

Short-term implications

  • Severe pain and genital swelling
  • Haemorrhage
  • Cysts and neuromas
  • Septicaemia, Gangrene
  • Uterus, vaginal and pelvic infections
  • Increased risk of HIV and AIDs
  • Fractured and broken limbs from being held down
  • Painful urine excretion and retention
  • Death

Long-term implications

  • Increased risk of fistula
  • Complications in childbirth
  • Depression and post-natal depression
  • Psychosexual problems
  • Pregnancy and childbirth
  • Sexual dysfunction
  • Difficulties in menstruation
  • Trauma and flashbacks
  • Infertility