Sefton Safeguarding Children Partnership

Female Genital Mutilation (FGM)

WHAT IS Female Genital Mutilation (FGM)?

FGM, sometimes referred to as female circumcision, is when a girl's genitals (private parts) are altered or removed. It can cause long-lasting damage as well as on-going emotional distress. 

FGM can be extremely painful and dangerous. It can cause:

  • really bad pain
  • shock
  • bleeding
  • infections such as tetanus, HIV and hepatitis B and C
  • organ damage.
5 Facts about FGM:
FGM is abuse, and it's illegal in the UK
there is no religious or medical reason for FGM
FGM can happen at any age before marriage
FGM can be dangerous if there is blood loss and infection
FGM can happen at any age before marriage

The Home Office co-ordinates efforts across government and offers outreach support to local areas. You can find out more about FGM through the e-learning package, Recognising and preventing FGM.

For additional documents and guidance on FGM from GOV.UK