Female genital mutilation

Female genital mutilation (FGM) describes procedures that intentionally alter or cause injury to the female genital organs for non-medical reasons. It is not similar to male circumcision. Victims are usually aged between days old and adolescence.

Much like so-called ‘honour-based violence’ it demonstrates inequality between sexes and is an example of control ‘justified’ by perceived cultural and sometimes religious standards and expectations. It is associated with the idea of femininity and ideals of modesty and restraint: many families believe the practise is essential in the prevention of promiscuity and female libido. It is often explained as way of removing parts which perpetrators deem ‘unclean’. The overarching reason for performing such procedures is to make women and girls more appealing and more acceptable for men.

FGM occurs all over the world, including the UK. The vast majority of practise occurs in Africa and the Middle East; the World Health Organization estimates that more than 230 million girls and women alive today have undergone FGM (2025).

FGM often not only causes injury to the victims but causes infection, severe bleeding, cysts, infertility, other physical complications and in some instances death.

Practitioners usually have that specific role in their community; families make their children available for the procedure.

Where to get help

To report a case of FGM or for advice and help, you can contact: