Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) Versus Male Circumcision

Genital Mutilation
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Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) Versus Male Circumcision
The alteration and cutting of genitals are highlighted in two significant discourses; for girls (Female Genital Mutilation (FGM)) and boys (Male Circumcision). FGM is considered barbaric and risky for a girl's health. It is where the female genitals are consciously cut, altered, or injured, with no medical indication (WHO, 2022). It is mainly done on young girls before they enter the puberty stage. On the other hand, male circumcision is where the skin at the tip of the penis is surgically removed (Morris et al., 2017). Whereas FGM is not medically indicated, male circumcision poses several health benefits.
FGM and male circumcision are similar in that a small part of the genitals is cut. While male circumcision cuts the foreskin, FGM cuts the clitoris (WHO, 2022). Additionally, both practices are mainly carried out to honor cultural norms and beliefs. For instance, FGM is linked to cultural ideals that reflect modesty and femininity (Earp, 2020). These ideals vary from one culture to another and include a combination of sociocultural factors in communities and families. Male circumcision also carries a cultural concept, which stipulates masculinity and leadership from the familial and community perspective (Morris et al., 2017).
However, FGM cannot be compared to male circumcision. Male circumcision is recommended by several health bodies, including the World Health Organization (WHO). It is a wanted practice generally embraced by many cultures and even religions. On the other hand, FGM is fought against, and in this century, only a few distinct indigenous communities in some countries practice it (Earp, 2020). FGM is banned as illegal in most developed countries. When considering the ethical principles, male circumcision meets the concepts of beneficence and non-maleficence. Beneficence is the ethical obligation of health figures to perform only the health practices that benefit the patient. Non-maleficence enforces that healthcare professionals are not to cause harm to anyone intentionally and perform activities that minimize and avoid risk to the health of the patient at all costs. On the other hand, FGM is medically considered unethical, as it causes harm and comprises the health status and longevity of the person (Earp, 2020). Male circumcision is therefore done in broad daylight, while FGM is carried out in dark holes to mean suffering and even death.
Many medical experts recommend male circumcision as it poses more health benefits than risks. These benefits include a reduced risk of urinary tract infections. Uncircumcised males have an increased risk of infections, as bacteria and other microorganisms breed quickly...