Female circumcisions on the increase

The practice of female genital cutting is still prevalent especially among rural communities in spite of government’s persistent campaigns against it, a medical officer has said. The medical doctor, who would not want to be named, said many parents were willing to have their daughters circumcised because they see it as a strong cultural practice […]

The practice of female genital cutting is still prevalent especially among rural communities in spite of government’s persistent campaigns against it, a medical officer has said.
The medical doctor, who would not want to be named, said many parents were willing to have their daughters circumcised because they see it as a strong cultural practice that enhances women’s dignity.
According to him, about one quarter of the estimated 115 to 130 million circumcised women in the world could be said to be Nigerians.
He said, “The practice was part of attempts to control women’s sexuality as parents fear that failing to have their daughters and granddaughters cut will expose them to social exclusion.”
He said the procedure involved in genital cutting could lead to complications especially if the blades used in cutting the external genetalia were not sterilized or an infection occurs.
“The degree of complication depends on the nature of the mutilation, the type of tools used, the skill of the operator, and the physical response of the operated individual at the time of the operation. Female genital complication could be life long, irreversible and require medical attention to mitigate their effect.”
Furthermore, infections caused by the use of unsterilized instruments in unhygienic environment may lead to blood poisoning, tetanus, and high risk of HIV transmission he said, adding that at the grassroots, efforts should be taken to increase campaign against female genital cuttings anywhere it is practiced in Nigeria.
Dada, HND II Mass Communication, Federal Polytechnic, Bida