A new study by the World Health Organization (WHO) and United Nations' Human Reproduction Programme (HRP) titled Exploring the health complications of female genital mutilation through a systematic review and meta-analysis, compiled comparative data from women with and without FGM, including differenced by FGM types and revealed the long-term affect that this process bears on women.Female genital mutilation or FGM is a harmful, deeply rooted cultural practice that still continues to affect the health and well-being of millions of women and girls from around the world. The recent study highlights just how far-reaching the consequences of FGM can be. It also notes the physical, mental, sexual, obstetric, and even neonatal health.The study is published in BMC Public Health and analyzes data from over 75 studies conducted in around 30 countries. It offers a detailed look at the short-term and long-term effects of FGM on survivors.What Did The Study Find?The study found that FGM carries immediate health risks, from excessive bleeding, severe pain, shock, to life-threatening infections. In long term, survivors may also suffer from chronic menstrual problems, urinary tract infections, kidney issues, and pain during intercourse.It can also lead to mental health consequence: The emotional toll of FGM is significant. The study shows that women who have undergone FGM are nearly three times more likely to experience depression or anxiety, and are 4.4 times more likely to suffer from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). This mental anguish can persist for years, severely affecting quality of life, relationships, and self-esteem.The obstetric complication includes the increased risk during childbirth. Women who have undergone FGM are more than twice as likely to experience prolonged or obstructed labor, hemorrhage, or need emergency caesarean sections or forceps deliveries. These complications not only endanger mothers but also put newborns at risk of fetal distress, asphyxia, and even death.What Is FGM?As per WHO, FGM comprises all procedures that involve partial or total removal of the external female genitalia. It also comprises of all the other injury to the female genital organs for non-medical reasons. The practice has no health benefits for girls and women and can result in severe bleeding and problems urinating. It can also lead to development of cysts, menstrual difficulties, infections, as well as complications in childbirth and increased risk of newborn deaths.This practice is recognized internationally as violation of the human rights of girls and women. It reflects deep-rooted inequality between the sexes and constitutes an extreme form of discrimination against girls and women.What Are The Types Of FGM?There are 4 types of FGM, as followed:Type 1: This is the partial or total removal of the clitoral glans, and/or the prepuce/clitoral hood.Type 2: This is the partial or total removal of the clitoral glans and the labia minora, with or without removal of the labia majora.Type 3: This is also known as infibulation. The process involves the narrowing of the vaginal opening through the creation of a covering seal. The seal is formed by cutting and repositioning the labia minora or the labia majora, sometimes through stitching, with or without removal of the clitoral prepuce or the clitoral hood and glans.Type 4: This includes all the other kinds of harmful procedures done to the female genitalia for non-medical purposes, which include pricking, piercing, incising, scraping, and cauterizing the genital area.The Urgent Need for AwarenessDr Pascale Allotey, WHO’s Director of Sexual and Reproductive Health and Research and head of HRP, said:“This study paints a devastating picture of the manifold health implications of female genital mutilation… There is a critical need to ensure timely, high-quality health care for survivors, to engage communities for prevention and ensure families are aware of FGM’s harmful effects.”The WHO stresses the importance of community education, survivor care, and political will to end the practice. Recognizing the complexity of cultural beliefs that drive FGM, experts emphasize the need for culturally sensitive interventions that empower women and girls.