8. Perpetuating FGM

However, underlying the primary reasons that FGM is practised, there are many beliefs and reasons why FGM continues to be perpetuated

Sexual control: FGM is meant to ensure a woman's virginity before marriage and her faithfulness to her husband afterwards. In addition some communities think that a woman's sexual desires would be uncontrollable if the practice, particularly removal of the clitoris was not carried out. It is also carried out in order to increase the husband's sexual pleasure.

Culture and Tradition: FGM is often very closely tied into a communities identity and traditions on a girl's transition into womanhood. It's sometimes closely associated with community celebrations and the well being of the wider community. FGM also represents a lucrative income stream and a source of status for the "cutters" who carry out the procedures.

Pressure by society: In many countries FGM remains a pre-requisite for marriage. Marriage is often the only route for economic stability for women and therefore, there's a lot of pressure on women, their families and also potential husbands to perpetuate the practice.

Health, hygiene and aesthetic reasons: The external female genitalia are considered dirty and ugly by some cultures and so removal is recommended to prevent disease and to improve appearance. There are many myths surrounding FGM, such as that it will increase the chances of becoming pregnant and carrying a baby to term. These types of myths are hard to counter, particularly in areas with rudimentary healthcare and high perinatal mortality rates.

Religion: The practice of FGM is not limited to any one religious group and is not promoted by any of the main religions such as Islam or by Christianity. However, it is practised by communities belonging to these and many other religions, who will often cite their beliefs as a reason for the the practice.

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