Female Genital Mutilation (FGM)

04 Mar 2016

Female genital mutilation, also known as female genital cutting and female circumcision, is a human rights violation and a form of gender-based violence against women. When performed on girls under the age of 18 years, FGM is child abuse.

Healthcare practitioners should be vigilant to the possibility of FGM both within the UK and for girls who may travel abroad to have the procedure carried out.

To learn more about FGM, access the new FGM pages on fitfortravel which include information and advice on:

• Types of FGM
• Epidemiology
• Psychological and physical consequences
• Who is at risk
• Signs of imminent risk
• What to do if you suspect that a girl is at risk including the expected response from healthcare practitioners under the FGM Act 2003
• Further resources.

Health Protection Scotland would like to thank and acknowledge Professor Hazel Barrett, who has provided the information for the new Travax and fitfortravel pages on FGM.