FAQs

What does FGM stand for?

FGM stands for female genital mutilation. FGM is defined by the World Health Organisation (WHO) as “all procedures involving the partial or total removal of the external female genitalia or injury to the female genital organs for non-medical reasons”. FGM is also sometimes referred to as female genital cutting (FGC) or female circumcision. FGM is used by many international conventions, organizations and UN bodies to emphasize the harm done through this practice.

What does FGC stand for?

FGC stands for female genital cutting. FGC is defined by the World Health Organisation (WHO) as “all procedures involving the partial or total removal of the external female genitalia or injury to the female genital organs for non-medical reasons”. FGC is also sometimes referred to as female genital mutilation (FGM) or female circumcision. FGC is used by many implementing and grassroots organizations to avoid backlash and defensiveness from communities in response to terms like mutilation.

Is FGM/C the same as female circumcision?

Some communities use the term female circumcision to refer to the practice defined by the World Health Organisation (WHO) as “all procedures involving the partial or total removal of the external female genitalia or injury to the female genital organs for non-medical reasons”. Internationally this practice is often referred to as female genital mutilation (FGM) or female genital cutting (FGC). The term female circumcision attempts to draw a parallel between male circumcision and FGM/C but referring to FGM/C as circumcision neglects its harmful consequences.

What does FGM/C stand for?

FGM/C stands for female genital mutilation or cutting. FGM/C is defined by the World Health Organisation (WHO) as “all procedures involving the partial or total removal of the external female genitalia or injury to the female genital organs for non-medical reasons”. FGM/C is also sometimes referred to as female genital mutilation (FGM) or female genital cutting (FGC) giving rise to the combined term FGM/C. The practice is also sometimes referred to as female circumcision.

What is Female Genital Mutilation/Cutting?

Female genital mutilation or cutting (FGM/C) is defined by the World Health Organisation (WHO) as “all procedures involving the partial or total removal of the external female genitalia or injury to the female genital organs for non-medical reasons”. FGM/C is a deeply rooted cultural practice and is a violation of human rights which poses severe health risk.

What are the types of FGM/C?

The World Health Organisation (WHO) identifies four distinct types of FGM/C:

• Type I (Clitoridectomy): Partial or total removal of the clitoris.
• Type II (Excision): Partial or total removal of the clitoris and the labia minora.
• Type III (Infibulation): Narrowing of the vaginal opening, leaving a small opening for urine and menstrual blood.
• Type IV (Other): Includes various practices like pricking, piercing, burning or scraping of the genital area.

What are the health consequences of FGM/C?

FGM/C can have severe and long-lasting health consequences. Impacts include severe pain, excessive bleeding, infections, and even death from the cut. Later on it can cause post traumatic stress disorders and mental health problems, repeat infections, pelvic inflammation, painful sex and problems during pregnancy and childbirth. 

How many women and girls are impacted by FGM/C?

Over 230 million women and girls alive today have been impacted by FGM/C. At least 4 million girls are at risk each year. FGM/C is common in Africa, Asia and the Middle East and also affects immigrant communities world-wide.

Why is FGM/C performed?

FGM/C is often performed due to a combination of cultural and social factors, and it is deeply ingrained in the traditions of certain communities.

Common reasons include:

• Cultural Identity: In some societies, FGM/C is seen as a rite of passage into womanhood and a way to preserve cultural identity.
• Social Acceptance: FGM/C is sometimes believed to enhance a woman's marriage prospects by ensuring her chastity and fidelity.
• Misguided Health Beliefs: Some communities believe that FGM/C has health benefits.
• Religious Obligation: Some communities believe FGM/C is a religious obligation, though it predates and is not mandated by any modern religion.