Stop female circumcision – WHO

2010-02-05 14:17

Geneva - The World Health Organisation says doctors, nurses and midwives in African countries should stop performing female genital mutilation.

WHO specialist Elise Johansen says health workers are still assisting in cutting young girls' genitals to limit their sexual activity as women.

She said on Friday they are responsible for nearly 75% of the cases in Egypt, about 42% in Sudan and 34% in Kenya.

The process, also called female circumcision, is common in parts of Africa and involves the surgical removal of the clitoris or other genital parts. It can eliminate pleasure for women during sex and cause lasting pain and complications in childbirth.

- AP