Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) refers to all procedures that involve altering or injuring female genitalia for non-medical reasons. It is recognised internationally as a serious violation of the human rights of girls and women.
FGM occurs most often in 29 countries situated within Africa and the Middle East but is also common in several Asian countries including; India, Iraq and Pakistan and unfortunately continues to persist amongst immigrant populations living in Western Europe, North America, Australia and New Zealand.
Young women are often subjected to FGM at some point between birth and the age of 15, it can cause severe health issues including cysts, infections, infertility and complications in childbirth (increasing the risk of new born deaths). In severe cases it can even lead to the death of the young woman.
Globally, it is estimated that at least 200 million girls and women alive today have undergone some form of FGM. Girls who are 14 and younger make up around 44 million of these.
We have a district safeguarding unit here in Bradford, you can contact them on 01274 376116
Alternatively you can call the NSPCC FGM helpline on 0800 028 3550
There is also an application created by Coventry University called 'Petals' which is free to download for FGM help.
FGM is child abuse and it is against the law.
