Female genital mutilation (FGM)
In this section:
| 1. Female genital mutilation (FGM) |
| 2. How to report FGM |
| 3. FGM support organisations |
Female genital mutilation (FGM), also called ‘female cutting’ or ‘female circumcision, is when a female's genitals are deliberately altered or removed for non-medical reasons.
FGM happens because of various cultural, religious and social reasons. Some communities think that FGM will help the girl in some way, such as preparing her for marriage or childbirth.
FGM can cause severe psychological, emotional and medical problems. It can include extreme pain, shock, infection and many other long term serious medical issues.
There are no health benefits to FGM. Find out more about the medical aspects of FGM.
FGM is a form of child abuse and violence against women and it's against the law in the UK.
Types of FGM
FGM is grouped into four main types:
- type 1: part or total removal of the clitoris or clitoral hood
- type 2: part or total removal of the clitoris and the labia minor
- type 3: narrowing of the vaginal opening
- type 4: all other harmful procedures to the female genitalia for non-medical purposes
FGM and the law
The Female Genital Mutilation Act 2003 makes it illegal to:
- perform FGM in the UK
- help or arrange for anyone to carry out FGM abroad on girls who are British Nationals or UK residents
- help a girl to carry out FGM on herself
- fail to protect a girl under 16 who is known to be at risk of FGM
FGM carries a penalty of up to 14 years in prison.
Warning signs
There are a number of signs a girl could have been a victim of FGM:
- changes in behaviour
- missing school, particularly after a trip to a country where FGM is common
- spending long periods of time out of the classroom
- spending longer than usual going to the toilet
- avoiding going to the toilet
- discomfort when sitting down
- avoiding physical exercise
- frequent menstrual or urinary infections
Children often don't know that FGM is going to take place. This means there may be few warning signs before it happens. But, sometimes children do know in advance, which can lead to a change in their behaviour, such as seeking advice or help from professionals and friends.