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Female genital mutilation (FGM): the facts

Female genital mutilation, sometimes called 'cutting' or 'circumcision', is a serious crime and can have life-long impacts on a child's physical and mental health. Find out the facts, including warning signs.

Last reviewed on 15 April 2026
School types: All•School phases: All•Ref: 46334
Contents
  1. FGM is where the female genitals are cut, injured or changed without a medical reason
  2. FGM is illegal in the UK
  3. Risk factors for FGM
  4. Signs that FGM may be about to take place, or has taken place

FGM is where the female genitals are cut, injured or changed without a medical reason

It's a form of "honour"-based abuse, meaning that it's carried out in the belief that it will defend or protect the honour of a family or community. It has no health benefits, and can result in serious medical complications, and life-long physical and mental health impacts.

In England and Wales, it’s estimated that around 103,000 women aged between 15 and 49 are currently living with the consequences of female genital mutilation, or FGM (see chapter 2: 'Understanding FGM').

The consequences of FGM include:

  • Severe pain
  • Shock
  • Death
  • Excessive bleeding (haemorrhage)
  • Infections, e.g. tetanus
  • Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
  • Mental health conditions, e.g. anxiety, depression
  • Urinary problems
  • Pain during sex, or loss of sensation
  • Genital swelling, or injury to the surrounding area
  • Complications in pregnancy or childbirth
  • Difficulties with menstruation

Type 1: Partial or total removal of the clitoris and/or the clitoral hood Type 2: Partial or