______________ is the most extreme form of genital surgery and is usually performed on girls between the ages of 5 and 8. The clitoris and labia minor are removed, the flesh is scraped from the labia majora and sewn together, closing the vagina almost completely (leaving a small opening for urination and menstruation). The opening is made larger after marriage to permit intercourse, but may be ordered by her husband to be resewn (e.g., to prevent pregnancy or if he leaves town). This makes sexual activity extremely painful for women and often increases men’s pleasure.

Question

Fill in the blank(s) with the appropriate word(s).

Answer 1

Infibulation