Female Genital Mutilation:
A MYTH BUSTING GUIDE
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What is FGM?
FGM involves harming or removing all or part of the external female genitalia. It has been illegal in England and Wales since 1985. It is recognised as a human rights violation and harms women and girls in many ways and has no health benefits.
Is it religious?
It is not a religious practise; the Bible and Quran have nothing to do with it.
Which countries practise FGM?
Women across the globe are affected by FGM, taking place in areas of Africa, Asia and the Middle East. Women and girls with FGM now live in countries all over the world, including the UK particularly among members of migrant communities
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What are the different types of FGM?
Type 1: Clitoridectomy- involves the partial or total removal of the clitoris Type 2: Excision- involves the partial or total removal of the clitoris and the labia Type 3: Infibulation – involves the narrowing or stitching of the vaginal opening Type 4: Any other harmful procedures such as pricking, stretching and cauterizing.
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Are there any complications?
There is a range of physical, emotional and psychological complications of FGM Physical complications includes: risk of infection, painful periods, pain passing urine, higher risk of still birth, pain during sex or unable to have sex Psychological problems may include: low selfesteem, depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder and other mental health issues
Is it an African Problem?
Not all African countries practise FGM It is also practised by communities outside of Africa, including some Christian communities in the United States FGM is a gender- based violence issue that can impact everyone.
Is it safe when performed by a medical professional?
In whatever setting FGM occurs, it is still detrimental to the health of the woman or girl. Some risk factors may be slightly reduced through a sterile environment and knowledge, there is still no medical benefit to FGM The long term psychological and physical consequences remain the same.
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Is FGM the same as male circumcision? No, it is not the same. Male circumcision has some health benefits, whereas FGM has no medical benefits at all. There is no damage to the penis during male circumcision whereas there are long lasting detrimental impacts of FGM.
Can we condemn someone else’s cultural traditions? • FGM cannot be justified by arguments of cultural tradition • •
Culture is something that should be celebrated, and is not something that brings harm and pain Losing the tradition of FGM will not destroy culture but maintaining it will harm those who undergo it
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Is FGM just a women’s issue?
FGM is rooted in patriarchal tradition where men benefit by sending or collecting money for their daughters to be cut and turning a blind eye to it It is important for men to understand this practise as abuse and challenging traditions to end this unnecessary harm to women and girls
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