Why does FGM continue?
Upon understanding the health implications of FGM, the question many people ask is why? Why does this still happen? Why is it that women – mothers and grandmothers – are often the ones to subject their daughters to the same horrific experience they went through as girls? Custom and tradition dictate that women are cut for a number of reasons. It is done for the preservation of virginity, prevention of promiscuity and to increase sexual pleasure for a male after marriage. It is also a requirement for marriage in most cases and is believed to enhance fertility. Of course, when a woman is married, she will experience a great deal of pain during intercourse, especially if she was infibulated and, likely, not much pleasure, as the clitoris was specifically for that purpose. FGM also happens for family honour and a sense of belonging. It is falsely believed to ensure hygiene and cleanliness. FGM ceremonies are very important for young girls in these communities. They are often seen as a rite
