Female Genital Mutilation

(FGM)

Female Genital Mutilation (FGM):

Is sometimes mistakenly referred to as Female Circumcision, is defined by the World Health Organisation (WHO) as the range of procedures which involves 'partial or complete removal of the external female genitalia or other injury to the female genital organs whether for cultural or any other non-therapeutic reasons'. FGM is typically performed on girls between 4 and 15, although in some cases it is performed on new babies or to young women prior to marriage.

It is estimated that as many as 20,000 girls are at risk of FGM within the UK every year. There are severe consequences, both psychological and emotional and the medical consequences include extreme pain, shock, infection, hemorrhage, infertility, incontinence, HIV and death. There are NO health benefits for girls or women.

Any FGM procedure on a woman or girl is unlawful under the Female Genital Mutilation ACT 2003. It is also an offence under the ACT for UK nationals or permanent residents to carry out FGM abroad, or to aid, abet, consul or procure the carrying out of FGM abroad, even in countries where the practice is legal.

FGM is recognised internationally as a violation of the human rights of girls and women. It reflects deep-rooted inequality between the sexes, and constitutes an extreme form of discrimination against women. It is nearly always carried out on minors and is a violation of the rights of children. The practice also violates a person's rights to health, security and physical integrity, the right to be free from torture and cruel, inhuman or degrading treatment, and the right to life when the procedure results in death.

If You Suspect a Child is at Risk Contact Harrow Children Services Duty and Assessment Team

For More Information:

In An Emergency Always Dial 999