A growing number of women are speaking out against a controversial childbirth procedure known as the “husband stitch,” describing it as harmful, unethical, and a violation of their rights.
For Faith*, the trauma began after the birth of her first child in April 2023. What should have been a joyful moment turned into a painful experience that has continued to affect her physically and emotionally. Following a severe tear during delivery, she was stitched, but later discovered that an additional, non-medical stitch had been added to supposedly tighten her vagina for her husband’s sexual pleasure.
The discovery left her devastated. She said the pain has persisted for years, affecting her mobility shortly after childbirth and making intimacy difficult. The emotional toll has been equally heavy, with lingering trauma shaping her view of childbirth and relationships.
Medical experts explain that the so-called “husband stitch” involves adding extra sutures during the repair of vaginal tears after delivery, not for medical reasons, but to narrow the vaginal opening. However, professionals strongly warn that the practice has no scientific backing and can lead to complications such as chronic pain, scarring, and painful intercourse.
Several women across Nigeria shared similar experiences, many revealing that the procedure was carried out without their knowledge or consent. Some only realised what had been done after hearing comments from healthcare workers or their partners. In other cases, women said they were encouraged to accept the procedure as a way to satisfy their husbands and maintain their marriages.
Despite claims by some that it enhances sexual pleasure, many affected women report the opposite, describing discomfort, pain, and long-term dissatisfaction.
Health professionals and advocates have condemned the practice, classifying it as a form of female genital mutilation (FGM) since it involves altering the female genitalia for non-medical purposes. They emphasise that it violates medical ethics, particularly when performed without informed consent, and may amount to malpractice.
Reports have also highlighted the broader risks associated with the procedure, noting that while stitching after childbirth injuries is sometimes necessary, adding extra sutures offers no medical benefit and may instead worsen recovery outcomes.
Experts further argue that prioritising male sexual satisfaction over women’s health reflects deep-rooted gender inequality within some healthcare practices. They stress that women should be fully informed and give consent before any medical procedure is performed.
Although Nigerian law criminalises FGM, there is currently no specific mention of the “husband stitch,” creating a gap that allows the practice to persist in some settings. Advocacy groups are now calling for stronger regulations, increased awareness, and stricter enforcement to protect women.
Medical authorities also warn that any professional found carrying out such procedures could face disciplinary action, including the loss of their license. Women affected by the practice are encouraged to report cases and seek both medical and legal support.
As more survivors come forward, there are growing calls for urgent action to end the practice and ensure that childbirth remains a safe and respectful experience for women.
