Outside of her work as a women’s health care practitioner, Dr. Maureen Muoneke has a strong interest in improving healthcare across West Africa. Dr. Maureen Muoneke is also an ardent supporter of banning the practice of female genital mutilation (FGM), a tradition that contributes to immediate physical and psychological damage and long-term health risks.
FGM involves cutting or removing outer parts of the vagina for non-medical purposes. It is practiced all over Africa, but most commonly in Mali, Guinea, Egypt, and Sudan. In some cultures, FGM is practiced for religious reasons or beliefs about femininity and promiscuity. The procedure has no health benefits and can lead to long-term complications.
Women and girls who have undergone FGM are more susceptible to vaginal and urinary tract infections, complications during pregnancy and childbirth, and menstruation issues. Since the procedure is often carried out in non-sterile conditions, it can also cause keloids and scar tissue to develop at the incision site. This can result in ongoing pain and a higher risk of infection.Close
Dr. Maureen Muoneke 