International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics

The United Nations Operation in Ivory Coast (UNOCI) has commended the decision to hand a custodial sentence to people who carry out female genital mutilation (FGM).

Speaking to AFP, Patrick Yedress of UNOCI said the jail sentence handed to nine women is the "first of its kind" in the African nation.

As a result, he is hopeful that it will help to reduce the number of instances of FGM taking place in Ivory Coast.

The women, whose ages range from 46 to 91, will have to spend a year in jail after carrying out the procedure on approximately 30 girls in the Katiola area.

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), there are no health benefits associated with FGM.

Indeed, the group believes it leads to various health problems later on, including cysts, urinary difficulties, infections and infertility.

WHO also believes women who undergo FGM are more likely to experience complications when giving birth.

Posted by Paul Robertson