International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics

Women's health specialists in Egypt are to speak out on the issue of female genital mutilation (FGM).

According to the United Nations, representatives of several leading organisations will be discussing the subject at a press conference on Monday September 10th.

The session is being arranged in response to recent calls from some Egyptians to carry out FGM and to abolish the law that makes the practice illegal.

An official from the country's health ministry will be among those taking part, along with various university academics and members of the Egyptian Society of Gynaecology and Obstetrics.

The World Health Organization (WHO) has described FGM as a violation of a female's human rights and believes it carries no health benefits.

Women and girls who undergo the procedure can end up experiencing urinary problems, infections and are likely to suffer complications when giving birth. WHO also believes FGM can lead to infertility in many victims.

Posted by Alexandra George