Female Genital Mutilation: A Visual Reference and Overview” (AME Medical Journal).

by Dame Diongue

After reading Female Genital Mutilation: A Visual Reference and Overview, I want to share the three most important points I learned and my own thoughts.

First, I learned that FGM has no health benefit at all, only harm. The authors showed how it causes bleeding, infection, pain, childbirth problems, and sometimes death. They explained the four types of FGM and how each one damages a part of the female body. I never knew how deep the suffering goes, both physically and emotionally. It shocked me that such a harmful act is still happening in many places and even to very young girls. The authors made it clear that FGM is not a medical practice. It is a form of violence.

Second, I learned that doctors and nurses must be trained to help survivors with care and kindness. Many women who have gone through FGM feel ashamed or afraid to seek help. The authors said medical workers should not judge them but treat them with respect and empathy. I liked how the paper used clear explanations and pictures to guide doctors on how to repair the damage safely. It reminded me that kindness and skill together can heal not only the body but also the spirit.

Third, the authors warned against what they called “medicalization” of FGM. This happens when health workers perform the cutting in clinics thinking it makes it safer. The authors strongly said this is wrong. Making harm “clean” does not make it right. FGM in any form or setting is a violation of human rights. I respect them for saying this so firmly.

My thoughts: I fully agree with the writers. As a humanist, I believe every human being has the right to own their body and live without fear. FGM is cruel, and no religion or culture should defend it. I do not believe there is any god who wants this suffering. Only humans can stop it. Reading this paper made me angry at the pain caused but also hopeful that with education and compassion, we can change minds.

I also think prevention is as important as treatment. Doctors can repair damage, but the best healing is to stop FGM before it happens. This means more open talks in families, schools, and communities, especially with men and elders who support the tradition. As humanists, we must speak truth even when it is uncomfortable.

Thank you for sharing this essay. It reminded me that humanism is not just about reason, but also about caring deeply for others and standing up for those who cannot fight for themselves.