AAP came under heavy fire

The American Academy of Pediatrics has
withdrawn its controversial endorsement of a clitoral “nick” as a possible substitute
for female genital mutilation. The idea was reviled around the world and the
AAP came under heavy fire for colluding with a traditional practice which
oppressed women.

The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP)
reaffirms its strong opposition to female genital cutting (FGC) and counsels
its members not to perform such procedures. As typically practiced, FGC can be
life-threatening. Little girls who escape death are still vulnerable to
sterility, infection and psychological trauma.  The AAP does not endorse the practice of offering a
“clitoral nick.” This minimal pinprick is forbidden under federal law
and the AAP does not recommend it to its members.

AAP president Judith Palfrey said the
policy had been retracted “because it is important that the world health
community understands the AAP is totally opposed to all forms of female genital
cutting, both here in the U.S. and anywhere else in the world.” ~ AAP
News, June 1

Michael Cook
female genital mutilation