Female Genital Mutilation: Lasting Health Risks

Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) is a violation of human rights that inflicts severe, lifelong physical and mental health risks on survivors.

According to the World Health Organization, physical complications include chronic urinary problems like painful urination and infections, as well as vaginal issues involving discharge and itching.

Survivors often endure menstrual difficulties, painful sexual intercourse and the formation of permanent scar tissue or keloids.

FGM also leads to grave childbirth risks, including obstructed labor, hemorrhaging and newborn death.

Beyond physical harm, it causes deep psychological trauma such as depression, anxiety and PTSD.