Clitorectomy

Clitorectomy

Clitorectomy, also known as clitoridectomy, is a surgical procedure involving the partial or total removal of the clitoris. This procedure is most commonly associated with certain cultural practices, but it can also be performed for medical reasons. Clitorectomy is a form of female genital mutilation (FGM) when performed for non-medical reasons, and it is considered a violation of human rights by many international organizations.

Medical Indications

Clitorectomy may be performed for medical reasons, although these cases are rare. Medical indications for clitorectomy can include:

• Clitoral hypertrophy: This is a condition where the clitoris is abnormally large, which can cause discomfort or pain. In some cases, clitorectomy may be considered to alleviate symptoms.
• Clitoral cancer: In rare instances, cancerous growths may develop on the clitoris, necessitating surgical removal.

Cultural Practices

Clitorectomy is most commonly associated with cultural practices in certain regions of Africa, the Middle East, and Asia. It is often performed as part of female genital mutilation (FGM), which is a practice that involves altering or injuring the female genitalia for non-medical reasons. FGM is recognized internationally as a violation of the human rights of girls and women.

Types of Female Genital Mutilation

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), there are four major types of FGM:

1. Type I: Partial or total removal of the clitoris and/or the prepuce (clitoridectomy). 2. Type II: Partial or total removal of the clitoris and the labia minora, with or without excision of the labia majora. 3. Type III: Narrowing of the vaginal opening through the creation of a covering seal, with or without removal of the clitoris (infibulation). 4. Type IV: All other harmful procedures to the female genitalia for non-medical purposes, such as pricking, piercing, incising, scraping, and cauterizing.

Health Consequences

Clitorectomy, particularly when performed as part of FGM, can have severe health consequences, including:

• Immediate complications: Severe pain, bleeding, infection, and shock.
• Long-term consequences: Chronic pain, infections, decreased sexual pleasure, psychological trauma, and complications in childbirth.

Legal and Ethical Considerations

Many countries have enacted laws to prohibit FGM, including clitorectomy when performed for non-medical reasons. International organizations such as the United Nations and the World Health Organization advocate for the eradication of FGM and promote education and awareness to prevent the practice.

Also see

• Female genital mutilation
• Clitoral hypertrophy
• Infibulation
• Human rights