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