Shame on CMAJ for using the term “female circumcision.”1 More than a decade ago, the UN seminar on Traditional Practices Affecting the Health of Women and Children (Burkino Faso, 1991) recommended that the term “female genital mutilation” be used instead.2
The word “circumcision” downplays the appalling nature and consequences of female genital mutiltation. The WHO states that “excision of the clitoris and labia minor … are the commonest types of female genital mutilation. They constitute up to 80% of all female genital mutilation practised.”2 It is obvious that female genital mutilation and male circumcision are not analogous. Use of the term “female circumcision” obscures the issue and does a disservice to your readers and to all girls and women.
REFERENCES
- 1.
- 2.