Female Genital Mutilation
What is Female Genital Mutilation (FGM)?
Female genital mutilation (FGM) comprises all procedures that involve partial or total removal of the external female genitalia, or other injury to the female genital organs for non-medical reasons. It is also known as "female circumcision" or "cutting", and by other terms such as Sunna, Gudniin, Halalays, Tahur, Megrez and Khitan, among others.
FGM is usually carried out on young girls between infancy and the age of 15, most commonly before puberty starts. The practice is internationally recognised as a violation of the human rights of girls and women and is illegal in the UK. FGM has no health benefits and can lead to serious, long-term physical complications and psychological affects including depression, anxiety and post-traumatic stress disorder.
More information on what FGM involves and the effects on victims can be found by visiting the NHS website.
FGM is illegal in the UK.
It is an offence to:
- perform FGM (including taking a child abroad for FGM)
- help a girl perform FGM on herself whether in or outside of the UK
- help anyone perform FGM in the UK
- help anyone perform FGM outside the UK on a UK national or resident
- fail to protect a girl for whom you are responsible from FGM
Anyone who performs FGM can face up to 14 years in prison. Anyone found guilty of failing to protect a girl from FGM can face up to seven years in prison.
For further information you can download the Home Office FGM Resource Pack which includes information on legislation, prevalence, support available, healthcare, education and joint working.
All women and girls have the right to control what happens to their bodies and the right to say no to FGM.
Help is available if you've had FGM or you're worried that you or someone you know is at risk.
- If someone is in immediate danger contact the police immediately by dialling 999.
- If you're concerned that someone may be at risk contact the NSPCC helpline on 0800 028 3550 or fgmhelp@nspcc.org.uk.
- If you're under pressure to have FGM performed on your daughter ask your GP, health visitor or other healthcare professional for help or contact the NSPCC helpline.
- If you've had FGM, you can get help from a specialist NHS gynaecologist or FGM service – ask your GP, midwife or any other healthcare professional about services in your area.
Emotional support is also available by contacting Victims First. Please visit Get Support Now for ways to contact us.