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Female genital mutilation or cutting means procedures that alter or injure female genital organs for non-medical reasons. It has no health benefits.
FGM is a violation of the human rights of girls and women. It can cause severe pain, bleeding, infection, psychological trauma and lifelong complications. More than 230 million girls and women alive today have undergone FGM, according to the World Health Organization.
Read the WHO fact sheet →FGM is a criminal offence throughout the UK, although the legislation differs between jurisdictions. In England and Wales, the Female Genital Mutilation Act 2003 also covers specified conduct connected with taking someone abroad for FGM. Professionals must follow the rules that apply where they work.
Read the England and Wales statutory guidance →FGM is practised for complex social reasons, but it is not required by any religion. Communication must challenge the abuse clearly without stigmatising survivors or whole communities.
Women and girls who have undergone FGM deserve sensitive, confidential healthcare. NHS specialist clinics offer physical and psychological support.
Find NHS FGM support →The World Health Organization classifies FGM into four types and detailed subtypes. The professional briefing explains the terminology, health implications and safe practice without using graphic images.
Open the one-page professional briefing →Continue the story
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