Guest post: Another global feminism issue!

Breast “ironing” is a process which utilizes heated stones or tools to massage down breast tissue. It is practiced in order to prevent breast maturation. In Cameroon, it is estimated that 1 out of 4 young girls will undergo the ironing process. The picture below* shows some of the tools used in order to carry out the technique.

Mothers tend to fear their daughters’ developing silhouette will attract the sexual attention of males and lead to unwanted pregnancy. “I didn’t want my daughter’s breasts to grow, so I used this stone to press her breasts,” one mother explains. After holding a rock over a fire until it becomes warm, the stone is kneaded into a girl’s chest. This practice varies in frequency: some mothers will practice as much as two times a day.

Breasts are equated with sexual maturity and readiness; therefore, by restricting the growth of the young girls’ breasts, it is hoped that they will be spared from sexual aggression. According to a Washington Post report, “in Cameroon, being young and pregnant is not uncommon. Additionally, an estimated 30 percent of women have unwanted pregnancies, according to local health-care workers.” Mothers view ironing as taking action to provide their daughters with an “upper-hand” against these odds.

The problem in Cameroon, like many West and Central African areas practicing this method, is obviously not the mere fact that females develop breasts. It is a complete lack of sexual education to combat any misinformation. Instead of teaching females about their personal development, fear propels many mothers to destroy their daughters’ delicate bodies. Additionally, there is no formal educational process for males to learn about proper exercise of their sexuality. Breast ironing only treats one small symptom of a larger social illness.

Although the rate of breast ironing in Cameroon has been questioned, the fact remains that body mutilation is employed in certain places in order to combat early pregnancy. As Cameroon grows, females are becoming increasingly educated. This notion that breasts need to be restricted in order for daughters to achieve great things in their lives is flawed.

What’s your opinion on breast ironing? Doesn't ironing expand upon the double standard of sexuality responsibility? Should-- and how can-- the government get involved?

Check out this startling, but well-done video and this article* (photo used is from this gallery) to learn more.

With love,
Kiss My Ash: Novice Guest Poster/Sex Fairy Fan.