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wikify labia minora
During the late XIX century, in English speaking countries, the theory of irritation and reflex neurosis led to the development of many forms of genital mutilation.<ref>{{GollaherDL 1994}}</ref>
Circumcision of the male, [[infibulation]] of the male foreskin, castration, [[clitoridectomy]], circumcision proper of the female (removal or reduction of the clitoral hood), removal of the nymphae ([[labia minora]]), application of irritants to the genitals, enemas, hysterectomies. The purpose was to reduce excessive sexual desire and its manifestations, such as [[masturbation]], which were suspected to be the cause of many diseases.
Before the 19th century, circumcision existed only as a ritual for some cultures and religions. However, the belief that Jews were immune to [[masturbation]] because of their circumcision, led to the inclusion of circumcision among the plethora of genital surgeries.