Breast Ironing
Breast ironing is a traditional cultural practice that is most common in Cameroon, but exists in several other African countries primarily in Western and Central regions. As soon as a girl begins to show breast development, techniques are performed to stop or even reverse the process. Techniques include “ironing” the breasts with a hot pestle or stone on a regular basis, usually by the mother. Other female members of the family may also participate.
Breast ironing is performed for a number of reasons, none of which are to make the girl more attractive. It is quite the opposite. Flattening the breasts is done for a girl’s “safety” and “welfare”, as it is believed to discourage unwanted sexual attention and discourage premarital sex so that attention is focused on school. By maintaining the appearance of a flat chest, like that of a child, it is believed that a girl won’t perceive or be perceived sexually.
Statistics indicate that about 24% of girls in the country have had their breasts ironed. The tradition is considered a form of mutilation that causes extreme physical and psychological damage. It has also been found to be ineffective at what it attempts to do. National and international organizations have tried to persuade the population to end the practice, however it continues to remain a common one.
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