RETHABILE LENKOE
The invisible wounds behind genital mutilation.
Several countries in Africa and globally continue to practice genital mutilation despite reports that there are no actual benefits to what many deem a cruel and inhumane ritual. These reports have alerted us to the often dire physical effects associated with this practice which sometimes lead to death. However, in certain parts of the world, people continue to uphold and believe in genital mutilation.
For those who live to tell the tale, it’s one that left them not only physically scarred but emotionally, psychologically and mentally as well. They have to live with the invisible wounds left by this practice, very much for the rest of their lives.
Research has shown that girls who have been subjected to genital mitulation reported symptoms related to posttraumatic stress disorder, depression, anxiety, affective disorders, as well as increased suicidal thoughts and the risk of abusing substances later on in their lives. Often, these girls go through this practice without their consent, which may also leave them feeling betrayed by parents and unprotected by those who were supposed to look out for them.
These invisible wounds stay long after physical wounds may have taken place. Before the process even happens, there is a level of anxiety and fear that comes with knowing beforehand that you would have to undergo this ritual. The worry of what will happen to you, if you will be able to withstand the physical pain. Fear for one’s life because we know not everyone survives going through this. These are the invisible wounds often overlooked.
The negative psychological and mental effects may extend beyond the individual. With families that take a stand and who refuse to allow their loved ones to go through genital mutilation. They may have to live with the pain of being ostracized by their communities. They may even be shunned and seen as disrespectful towards their culture. The isolation they suffer from the rest of the community can lead to isolation, loneliness, lacking a sense of community and they may even present with symptoms for depression.
It is important to note that families that choose to honour and uphold this practice believe that they are doing what is best for their loved one. We therefore, have a responsibility as professionals in the health and mental health space, as advocate, healers, leaders, to educate families and communities. This needs to be done with empathy and a respect towards their culture so that the information doesnt come across as judgmental but rather a quest to assist them in making informed choices.
For those individuals that have gone through the process. We need to create a safe environment and platform for them to tell their stories. To talk about their experience as many times as it requires to facilitate healing of their physical and invisible wounds. As they attempt to reintegrate to full functioning, these individuals need to be held gently in a manner that allows validation of their feelings. Families and individuals alike should be empowered, to move beyond the guilt and shame that comes with the choices they made or what they were forced into. Sad as it may be, today still this conversation needs to happen so that we can influence a change in beliefs.