FGM is when a female’s genitals are deliberately altered or removed for non-medical reasons. It’s also known as ‘female circumcision’ or ‘cutting’, but has many other names. 

FGM is a form of child abuse. It’s dangerous and a criminal offence in the UK. We know: 

• there are no medical reasons to carry out FGM 
• it’s often performed by someone with no medical training, using instruments such as knives, scalpels, scissors, glass or razor blades 
• children are rarely given anaesthetic or antiseptic treatment and are often forcibly restrained 
• it’s used to control female sexuality and can cause long-lasting damage to physical and emotional health. 

FGM can happen at different times in a girl or woman’s life, including: 

• when a baby is new-born 
• during childhood or as a teenager 
• just before marriage 
• during pregnancy 

Worried about FGM? 

Call the FGM helpline if you’re worried a child is at risk of, or has had, FGM. 

It’s free, anonymous and they are available 24/7. 

0800 028 355