Womens Health

Category: Uncategorized

  • Types of Female genital mutilation (FGM)

    Types of Female genital mutilation (FGM)

    Types of Female genital mutilation (FGM)

    Table of Contents

    Key takeaways

    • Female genital mutilation is abuse, is illegal in the UK and should be handled as both a health and safeguarding concern.
    • FGM can cause immediate and long-term physical, sexual, pregnancy and mental health effects, even years after it happened.
    • Support should be trauma-informed, confidential where possible, and clear about safeguarding duties for girls and women at risk.
    • Deinfibulation may help some people with type 3 FGM, painful sex, urinary problems, pregnancy or birth planning after specialist assessment.
    • Call 999 if someone is in immediate danger; use NHS 111 or specialist services for urgent health concerns.

    Overview

    FGM is classified into types, but every form can cause harm and should be approached through safeguarding and trauma-informed care.

    Female genital mutilation means deliberately cutting, injuring or changing female genital tissue for non-medical reasons. It is sometimes called cutting or female circumcision, but clinical writing should be clear that it is harmful and illegal in the UK. People affected by FGM may be children, teenagers or adults, and they may need safeguarding, medical care, maternity planning, sexual health support and psychological help.

    The original article and thin draft were read locally before this rewrite. This replacement keeps the articleā€™s specific focus while meeting current editorial standards: trauma-informed language, clear safeguarding, practical clinical detail and relevant UK authority sources. The article is educational only and cannot replace urgent protection or specialist assessment.

    Types and health effects

    FGM is often classified into types based on what tissue was cut or sealed. Type 1 involves partial or total removal of the clitoral glans or prepuce. Type 2 involves removal of the clitoral glans and labia minora, with or without labia majora. Type 3, infibulation, narrows the vaginal opening by creating a seal. Type 4 includes other harmful procedures such as pricking, piercing, scraping or cauterising for non-medical reasons.

    Immediate effects can include severe pain, bleeding, shock, infection, urinary retention and injury to nearby tissues. Long-term effects can include chronic pain, painful periods, difficulty passing urine, recurrent infections, cysts, scarring, painful sex, reduced sexual wellbeing, childbirth complications and psychological trauma. The severity of visible cutting does not always predict the severity of distress or symptoms.

    Safeguarding and the law

    FGM is illegal in the UK. It is also illegal to take a girl abroad to have FGM carried out. Professionals may have safeguarding and mandatory reporting duties when a child is at risk or FGM is identified in someone under 18. Adults affected by FGM should be offered respectful care, information and choices, but safeguarding still matters if a child or another person may be at risk.

    Risk factors can include a family history of FGM, planned travel to a country or community where FGM is practised, relatives discussing a special ceremony, pressure from family members, or a girl being withdrawn from school or healthcare before travel. Risk assessment should be careful and non-stigmatising: the goal is protection, not blaming a whole community.

    Clinical care and deinfibulation

    Care may involve a GP, specialist FGM clinic, gynaecologist, midwife, sexual health service, safeguarding team or mental health professional. Assessment should be consent-based and should explain what examination involves before it happens. Some people may not know what type of FGM they have, may have never been examined, or may fear judgement. Sensitive explanation and choice are essential.

    Deinfibulation is a procedure to open scar tissue in type 3 FGM. It may be discussed for urinary or menstrual problems, painful sex, smear testing, pregnancy care or birth planning. Suitability is confirmed after specialist assessment. People should be told what the procedure involves, pain relief options, healing time, sexual activity advice, psychological support and whether follow-up is needed.

    Sex, pregnancy and mental health

    FGM can affect sex through pain, fear, reduced sensation, difficulty with penetration, flashbacks or relationship strain. Sexual difficulties after FGM are health concerns, not personal failings. Support may include medical assessment, deinfibulation where relevant, pelvic health physiotherapy, psychosexual therapy, trauma support and careful use of lubricants or vaginal moisturisers if dryness or pain is present.

    Pregnancy care should ask about FGM early so maternity teams can plan safely. Type 3 FGM may need deinfibulation before pregnancy, during pregnancy or in labour depending on circumstances and local specialist advice. Mental health effects can include anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress symptoms, shame, anger or numbness. Survivors should be offered support that respects privacy, culture, language needs and personal safety.

    Getting help and urgent protection

    If a girl or woman is in immediate danger of FGM, call 999. If there is a concern that a child may be taken abroad for FGM, contact police, childrenā€™s social care or a safeguarding professional urgently. Adults can ask a GP, midwife, sexual health clinic or specialist FGM service for help with symptoms, deinfibulation, pregnancy planning, counselling or safeguarding worries.

    Healthcare should never require a survivor to retell traumatic details repeatedly when notes can be shared safely with consent. Interpreting should be arranged professionally where needed, rather than relying on family members. If privacy is unsafe at home, services should discuss safe contact methods before sending letters, texts or appointment details.

    When to seek medical advice

    Seek medical advice for pelvic pain, painful sex, urinary problems, recurrent infections, period problems, pregnancy, flashbacks, anxiety, depression or concerns about a girl at risk. Prompt help is important for bleeding, fever, severe pain, inability to pass urine or immediate safeguarding danger.

    Use NHS 111 for urgent health advice when symptoms are worrying but not immediately life-threatening. Call 999 if someone is in immediate danger, has severe bleeding, collapses or needs emergency protection.

    Reader review points

    Care for FGM should move at the survivorā€™s pace unless there is immediate danger. The person may need to know who will be in the room, whether an examination is necessary, whether they can stop at any time, how information will be recorded, and what will happen if a child may be at risk. Clear explanation can reduce the chance that healthcare itself feels frightening or disempowering.

    Professionals should avoid assumptions about culture, sexuality, family relationships or what the person wants next. Some survivors want urgent treatment, some want time to understand their anatomy, some need maternity planning, and some mainly need psychological support or safeguarding advice. The most useful plan is specific, trauma-informed and documented, with safe contact arrangements if privacy at home is uncertain.

    Where children may be at risk, delay can increase harm. Safeguarding action should be proportionate, documented and focused on protection. For adults, care should still be empowering: explain choices, ask permission, use professional interpreters where needed, and check whether letters, calls or digital messages could place the person at risk.

    Sources

    Disclaimer

    Educational only. Results vary. Not a cure.

  • Risk of Female genital mutilation (FGM)

    Risk of Female genital mutilation (FGM)

    Risk of Female genital mutilation (FGM)

    Table of Contents

    Key takeaways

    • Female genital mutilation is abuse, is illegal in the UK and should be handled as both a health and safeguarding concern.
    • FGM can cause immediate and long-term physical, sexual, pregnancy and mental health effects, even years after it happened.
    • Support should be trauma-informed, confidential where possible, and clear about safeguarding duties for girls and women at risk.
    • Deinfibulation may help some people with type 3 FGM, painful sex, urinary problems, pregnancy or birth planning after specialist assessment.
    • Call 999 if someone is in immediate danger; use NHS 111 or specialist services for urgent health concerns.

    Overview

    FGM risk assessment focuses on safeguarding, travel, family pressure, previous FGM in relatives and whether a girl or woman may be in danger.

    Female genital mutilation means deliberately cutting, injuring or changing female genital tissue for non-medical reasons. It is sometimes called cutting or female circumcision, but clinical writing should be clear that it is harmful and illegal in the UK. People affected by FGM may be children, teenagers or adults, and they may need safeguarding, medical care, maternity planning, sexual health support and psychological help.

    The original article and thin draft were read locally before this rewrite. This replacement keeps the articleā€™s specific focus while meeting current editorial standards: trauma-informed language, clear safeguarding, practical clinical detail and relevant UK authority sources. The article is educational only and cannot replace urgent protection or specialist assessment.

    Types and health effects

    FGM is often classified into types based on what tissue was cut or sealed. Type 1 involves partial or total removal of the clitoral glans or prepuce. Type 2 involves removal of the clitoral glans and labia minora, with or without labia majora. Type 3, infibulation, narrows the vaginal opening by creating a seal. Type 4 includes other harmful procedures such as pricking, piercing, scraping or cauterising for non-medical reasons.

    Immediate effects can include severe pain, bleeding, shock, infection, urinary retention and injury to nearby tissues. Long-term effects can include chronic pain, painful periods, difficulty passing urine, recurrent infections, cysts, scarring, painful sex, reduced sexual wellbeing, childbirth complications and psychological trauma. The severity of visible cutting does not always predict the severity of distress or symptoms.

    Safeguarding and the law

    FGM is illegal in the UK. It is also illegal to take a girl abroad to have FGM carried out. Professionals may have safeguarding and mandatory reporting duties when a child is at risk or FGM is identified in someone under 18. Adults affected by FGM should be offered respectful care, information and choices, but safeguarding still matters if a child or another person may be at risk.

    Risk factors can include a family history of FGM, planned travel to a country or community where FGM is practised, relatives discussing a special ceremony, pressure from family members, or a girl being withdrawn from school or healthcare before travel. Risk assessment should be careful and non-stigmatising: the goal is protection, not blaming a whole community.

    Clinical care and deinfibulation

    Care may involve a GP, specialist FGM clinic, gynaecologist, midwife, sexual health service, safeguarding team or mental health professional. Assessment should be consent-based and should explain what examination involves before it happens. Some people may not know what type of FGM they have, may have never been examined, or may fear judgement. Sensitive explanation and choice are essential.

    Deinfibulation is a procedure to open scar tissue in type 3 FGM. It may be discussed for urinary or menstrual problems, painful sex, smear testing, pregnancy care or birth planning. Suitability is confirmed after specialist assessment. People should be told what the procedure involves, pain relief options, healing time, sexual activity advice, psychological support and whether follow-up is needed.

    Sex, pregnancy and mental health

    FGM can affect sex through pain, fear, reduced sensation, difficulty with penetration, flashbacks or relationship strain. Sexual difficulties after FGM are health concerns, not personal failings. Support may include medical assessment, deinfibulation where relevant, pelvic health physiotherapy, psychosexual therapy, trauma support and careful use of lubricants or vaginal moisturisers if dryness or pain is present.

    Pregnancy care should ask about FGM early so maternity teams can plan safely. Type 3 FGM may need deinfibulation before pregnancy, during pregnancy or in labour depending on circumstances and local specialist advice. Mental health effects can include anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress symptoms, shame, anger or numbness. Survivors should be offered support that respects privacy, culture, language needs and personal safety.

    Getting help and urgent protection

    If a girl or woman is in immediate danger of FGM, call 999. If there is a concern that a child may be taken abroad for FGM, contact police, childrenā€™s social care or a safeguarding professional urgently. Adults can ask a GP, midwife, sexual health clinic or specialist FGM service for help with symptoms, deinfibulation, pregnancy planning, counselling or safeguarding worries.

    Healthcare should never require a survivor to retell traumatic details repeatedly when notes can be shared safely with consent. Interpreting should be arranged professionally where needed, rather than relying on family members. If privacy is unsafe at home, services should discuss safe contact methods before sending letters, texts or appointment details.

    When to seek medical advice

    Seek medical advice for pelvic pain, painful sex, urinary problems, recurrent infections, period problems, pregnancy, flashbacks, anxiety, depression or concerns about a girl at risk. Prompt help is important for bleeding, fever, severe pain, inability to pass urine or immediate safeguarding danger.

    Use NHS 111 for urgent health advice when symptoms are worrying but not immediately life-threatening. Call 999 if someone is in immediate danger, has severe bleeding, collapses or needs emergency protection.

    Reader review points

    Care for FGM should move at the survivorā€™s pace unless there is immediate danger. The person may need to know who will be in the room, whether an examination is necessary, whether they can stop at any time, how information will be recorded, and what will happen if a child may be at risk. Clear explanation can reduce the chance that healthcare itself feels frightening or disempowering.

    Professionals should avoid assumptions about culture, sexuality, family relationships or what the person wants next. Some survivors want urgent treatment, some want time to understand their anatomy, some need maternity planning, and some mainly need psychological support or safeguarding advice. The most useful plan is specific, trauma-informed and documented, with safe contact arrangements if privacy at home is uncertain.

    Where children may be at risk, delay can increase harm. Safeguarding action should be proportionate, documented and focused on protection. For adults, care should still be empowering: explain choices, ask permission, use professional interpreters where needed, and check whether letters, calls or digital messages could place the person at risk.

    Sources

    Disclaimer

    Educational only. Results vary. Not a cure.

  • Getting help and support for Female genital mutilation (FGM)

    Getting help and support for Female genital mutilation (FGM)

    Getting help and support for Female genital mutilation (FGM)

    Table of Contents

    Key takeaways

    • Female genital mutilation is abuse, is illegal in the UK and should be handled as both a health and safeguarding concern.
    • FGM can cause immediate and long-term physical, sexual, pregnancy and mental health effects, even years after it happened.
    • Support should be trauma-informed, confidential where possible, and clear about safeguarding duties for girls and women at risk.
    • Deinfibulation may help some people with type 3 FGM, painful sex, urinary problems, pregnancy or birth planning after specialist assessment.
    • Call 999 if someone is in immediate danger; use NHS 111 or specialist services for urgent health concerns.

    Overview

    Help should be confidential, culturally sensitive and clear about safeguarding, healthcare, emotional support and urgent protection.

    Female genital mutilation means deliberately cutting, injuring or changing female genital tissue for non-medical reasons. It is sometimes called cutting or female circumcision, but clinical writing should be clear that it is harmful and illegal in the UK. People affected by FGM may be children, teenagers or adults, and they may need safeguarding, medical care, maternity planning, sexual health support and psychological help.

    The original article and thin draft were read locally before this rewrite. This replacement keeps the articleā€™s specific focus while meeting current editorial standards: trauma-informed language, clear safeguarding, practical clinical detail and relevant UK authority sources. The article is educational only and cannot replace urgent protection or specialist assessment.

    Types and health effects

    FGM is often classified into types based on what tissue was cut or sealed. Type 1 involves partial or total removal of the clitoral glans or prepuce. Type 2 involves removal of the clitoral glans and labia minora, with or without labia majora. Type 3, infibulation, narrows the vaginal opening by creating a seal. Type 4 includes other harmful procedures such as pricking, piercing, scraping or cauterising for non-medical reasons.

    Immediate effects can include severe pain, bleeding, shock, infection, urinary retention and injury to nearby tissues. Long-term effects can include chronic pain, painful periods, difficulty passing urine, recurrent infections, cysts, scarring, painful sex, reduced sexual wellbeing, childbirth complications and psychological trauma. The severity of visible cutting does not always predict the severity of distress or symptoms.

    Safeguarding and the law

    FGM is illegal in the UK. It is also illegal to take a girl abroad to have FGM carried out. Professionals may have safeguarding and mandatory reporting duties when a child is at risk or FGM is identified in someone under 18. Adults affected by FGM should be offered respectful care, information and choices, but safeguarding still matters if a child or another person may be at risk.

    Risk factors can include a family history of FGM, planned travel to a country or community where FGM is practised, relatives discussing a special ceremony, pressure from family members, or a girl being withdrawn from school or healthcare before travel. Risk assessment should be careful and non-stigmatising: the goal is protection, not blaming a whole community.

    Clinical care and deinfibulation

    Care may involve a GP, specialist FGM clinic, gynaecologist, midwife, sexual health service, safeguarding team or mental health professional. Assessment should be consent-based and should explain what examination involves before it happens. Some people may not know what type of FGM they have, may have never been examined, or may fear judgement. Sensitive explanation and choice are essential.

    Deinfibulation is a procedure to open scar tissue in type 3 FGM. It may be discussed for urinary or menstrual problems, painful sex, smear testing, pregnancy care or birth planning. Suitability is confirmed after specialist assessment. People should be told what the procedure involves, pain relief options, healing time, sexual activity advice, psychological support and whether follow-up is needed.

    Sex, pregnancy and mental health

    FGM can affect sex through pain, fear, reduced sensation, difficulty with penetration, flashbacks or relationship strain. Sexual difficulties after FGM are health concerns, not personal failings. Support may include medical assessment, deinfibulation where relevant, pelvic health physiotherapy, psychosexual therapy, trauma support and careful use of lubricants or vaginal moisturisers if dryness or pain is present.

    Pregnancy care should ask about FGM early so maternity teams can plan safely. Type 3 FGM may need deinfibulation before pregnancy, during pregnancy or in labour depending on circumstances and local specialist advice. Mental health effects can include anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress symptoms, shame, anger or numbness. Survivors should be offered support that respects privacy, culture, language needs and personal safety.

    Getting help and urgent protection

    If a girl or woman is in immediate danger of FGM, call 999. If there is a concern that a child may be taken abroad for FGM, contact police, childrenā€™s social care or a safeguarding professional urgently. Adults can ask a GP, midwife, sexual health clinic or specialist FGM service for help with symptoms, deinfibulation, pregnancy planning, counselling or safeguarding worries.

    Healthcare should never require a survivor to retell traumatic details repeatedly when notes can be shared safely with consent. Interpreting should be arranged professionally where needed, rather than relying on family members. If privacy is unsafe at home, services should discuss safe contact methods before sending letters, texts or appointment details.

    When to seek medical advice

    Seek medical advice for pelvic pain, painful sex, urinary problems, recurrent infections, period problems, pregnancy, flashbacks, anxiety, depression or concerns about a girl at risk. Prompt help is important for bleeding, fever, severe pain, inability to pass urine or immediate safeguarding danger.

    Use NHS 111 for urgent health advice when symptoms are worrying but not immediately life-threatening. Call 999 if someone is in immediate danger, has severe bleeding, collapses or needs emergency protection.

    Reader review points

    Care for FGM should move at the survivorā€™s pace unless there is immediate danger. The person may need to know who will be in the room, whether an examination is necessary, whether they can stop at any time, how information will be recorded, and what will happen if a child may be at risk. Clear explanation can reduce the chance that healthcare itself feels frightening or disempowering.

    Professionals should avoid assumptions about culture, sexuality, family relationships or what the person wants next. Some survivors want urgent treatment, some want time to understand their anatomy, some need maternity planning, and some mainly need psychological support or safeguarding advice. The most useful plan is specific, trauma-informed and documented, with safe contact arrangements if privacy at home is uncertain.

    Where children may be at risk, delay can increase harm. Safeguarding action should be proportionate, documented and focused on protection. For adults, care should still be empowering: explain choices, ask permission, use professional interpreters where needed, and check whether letters, calls or digital messages could place the person at risk.

    Sources

    Disclaimer

    Educational only. Results vary. Not a cure.

  • Effects of Female genital mutilation

    Effects of Female genital mutilation

    Effects of Female genital mutilation

    Table of Contents

    Key takeaways

    • Female genital mutilation is abuse, is illegal in the UK and should be handled as both a health and safeguarding concern.
    • FGM can cause immediate and long-term physical, sexual, pregnancy and mental health effects, even years after it happened.
    • Support should be trauma-informed, confidential where possible, and clear about safeguarding duties for girls and women at risk.
    • Deinfibulation may help some people with type 3 FGM, painful sex, urinary problems, pregnancy or birth planning after specialist assessment.
    • Call 999 if someone is in immediate danger; use NHS 111 or specialist services for urgent health concerns.

    Overview

    FGM can affect physical health, sexual wellbeing, periods, urination, pregnancy, birth and mental health.

    Female genital mutilation means deliberately cutting, injuring or changing female genital tissue for non-medical reasons. It is sometimes called cutting or female circumcision, but clinical writing should be clear that it is harmful and illegal in the UK. People affected by FGM may be children, teenagers or adults, and they may need safeguarding, medical care, maternity planning, sexual health support and psychological help.

    The original article and thin draft were read locally before this rewrite. This replacement keeps the articleā€™s specific focus while meeting current editorial standards: trauma-informed language, clear safeguarding, practical clinical detail and relevant UK authority sources. The article is educational only and cannot replace urgent protection or specialist assessment.

    Types and health effects

    FGM is often classified into types based on what tissue was cut or sealed. Type 1 involves partial or total removal of the clitoral glans or prepuce. Type 2 involves removal of the clitoral glans and labia minora, with or without labia majora. Type 3, infibulation, narrows the vaginal opening by creating a seal. Type 4 includes other harmful procedures such as pricking, piercing, scraping or cauterising for non-medical reasons.

    Immediate effects can include severe pain, bleeding, shock, infection, urinary retention and injury to nearby tissues. Long-term effects can include chronic pain, painful periods, difficulty passing urine, recurrent infections, cysts, scarring, painful sex, reduced sexual wellbeing, childbirth complications and psychological trauma. The severity of visible cutting does not always predict the severity of distress or symptoms.

    Safeguarding and the law

    FGM is illegal in the UK. It is also illegal to take a girl abroad to have FGM carried out. Professionals may have safeguarding and mandatory reporting duties when a child is at risk or FGM is identified in someone under 18. Adults affected by FGM should be offered respectful care, information and choices, but safeguarding still matters if a child or another person may be at risk.

    Risk factors can include a family history of FGM, planned travel to a country or community where FGM is practised, relatives discussing a special ceremony, pressure from family members, or a girl being withdrawn from school or healthcare before travel. Risk assessment should be careful and non-stigmatising: the goal is protection, not blaming a whole community.

    Clinical care and deinfibulation

    Care may involve a GP, specialist FGM clinic, gynaecologist, midwife, sexual health service, safeguarding team or mental health professional. Assessment should be consent-based and should explain what examination involves before it happens. Some people may not know what type of FGM they have, may have never been examined, or may fear judgement. Sensitive explanation and choice are essential.

    Deinfibulation is a procedure to open scar tissue in type 3 FGM. It may be discussed for urinary or menstrual problems, painful sex, smear testing, pregnancy care or birth planning. Suitability is confirmed after specialist assessment. People should be told what the procedure involves, pain relief options, healing time, sexual activity advice, psychological support and whether follow-up is needed.

    Sex, pregnancy and mental health

    FGM can affect sex through pain, fear, reduced sensation, difficulty with penetration, flashbacks or relationship strain. Sexual difficulties after FGM are health concerns, not personal failings. Support may include medical assessment, deinfibulation where relevant, pelvic health physiotherapy, psychosexual therapy, trauma support and careful use of lubricants or vaginal moisturisers if dryness or pain is present.

    Pregnancy care should ask about FGM early so maternity teams can plan safely. Type 3 FGM may need deinfibulation before pregnancy, during pregnancy or in labour depending on circumstances and local specialist advice. Mental health effects can include anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress symptoms, shame, anger or numbness. Survivors should be offered support that respects privacy, culture, language needs and personal safety.

    Getting help and urgent protection

    If a girl or woman is in immediate danger of FGM, call 999. If there is a concern that a child may be taken abroad for FGM, contact police, childrenā€™s social care or a safeguarding professional urgently. Adults can ask a GP, midwife, sexual health clinic or specialist FGM service for help with symptoms, deinfibulation, pregnancy planning, counselling or safeguarding worries.

    Healthcare should never require a survivor to retell traumatic details repeatedly when notes can be shared safely with consent. Interpreting should be arranged professionally where needed, rather than relying on family members. If privacy is unsafe at home, services should discuss safe contact methods before sending letters, texts or appointment details.

    When to seek medical advice

    Seek medical advice for pelvic pain, painful sex, urinary problems, recurrent infections, period problems, pregnancy, flashbacks, anxiety, depression or concerns about a girl at risk. Prompt help is important for bleeding, fever, severe pain, inability to pass urine or immediate safeguarding danger.

    Use NHS 111 for urgent health advice when symptoms are worrying but not immediately life-threatening. Call 999 if someone is in immediate danger, has severe bleeding, collapses or needs emergency protection.

    Reader review points

    Care for FGM should move at the survivorā€™s pace unless there is immediate danger. The person may need to know who will be in the room, whether an examination is necessary, whether they can stop at any time, how information will be recorded, and what will happen if a child may be at risk. Clear explanation can reduce the chance that healthcare itself feels frightening or disempowering.

    Professionals should avoid assumptions about culture, sexuality, family relationships or what the person wants next. Some survivors want urgent treatment, some want time to understand their anatomy, some need maternity planning, and some mainly need psychological support or safeguarding advice. The most useful plan is specific, trauma-informed and documented, with safe contact arrangements if privacy at home is uncertain.

    Where children may be at risk, delay can increase harm. Safeguarding action should be proportionate, documented and focused on protection. For adults, care should still be empowering: explain choices, ask permission, use professional interpreters where needed, and check whether letters, calls or digital messages could place the person at risk.

    Sources

    Disclaimer

    Educational only. Results vary. Not a cure.

  • Female genital mutilation and sex

    Female genital mutilation and sex

    Female genital mutilation and sex

    Table of Contents

    Key takeaways

    • Female genital mutilation is abuse, is illegal in the UK and should be handled as both a health and safeguarding concern.
    • FGM can cause immediate and long-term physical, sexual, pregnancy and mental health effects, even years after it happened.
    • Support should be trauma-informed, confidential where possible, and clear about safeguarding duties for girls and women at risk.
    • Deinfibulation may help some people with type 3 FGM, painful sex, urinary problems, pregnancy or birth planning after specialist assessment.
    • Call 999 if someone is in immediate danger; use NHS 111 or specialist services for urgent health concerns.

    Overview

    FGM can affect sexual comfort, arousal, pain, trust and emotional safety, and support should never blame the survivor.

    Female genital mutilation means deliberately cutting, injuring or changing female genital tissue for non-medical reasons. It is sometimes called cutting or female circumcision, but clinical writing should be clear that it is harmful and illegal in the UK. People affected by FGM may be children, teenagers or adults, and they may need safeguarding, medical care, maternity planning, sexual health support and psychological help.

    The original article and thin draft were read locally before this rewrite. This replacement keeps the articleā€™s specific focus while meeting current editorial standards: trauma-informed language, clear safeguarding, practical clinical detail and relevant UK authority sources. The article is educational only and cannot replace urgent protection or specialist assessment.

    Types and health effects

    FGM is often classified into types based on what tissue was cut or sealed. Type 1 involves partial or total removal of the clitoral glans or prepuce. Type 2 involves removal of the clitoral glans and labia minora, with or without labia majora. Type 3, infibulation, narrows the vaginal opening by creating a seal. Type 4 includes other harmful procedures such as pricking, piercing, scraping or cauterising for non-medical reasons.

    Immediate effects can include severe pain, bleeding, shock, infection, urinary retention and injury to nearby tissues. Long-term effects can include chronic pain, painful periods, difficulty passing urine, recurrent infections, cysts, scarring, painful sex, reduced sexual wellbeing, childbirth complications and psychological trauma. The severity of visible cutting does not always predict the severity of distress or symptoms.

    Safeguarding and the law

    FGM is illegal in the UK. It is also illegal to take a girl abroad to have FGM carried out. Professionals may have safeguarding and mandatory reporting duties when a child is at risk or FGM is identified in someone under 18. Adults affected by FGM should be offered respectful care, information and choices, but safeguarding still matters if a child or another person may be at risk.

    Risk factors can include a family history of FGM, planned travel to a country or community where FGM is practised, relatives discussing a special ceremony, pressure from family members, or a girl being withdrawn from school or healthcare before travel. Risk assessment should be careful and non-stigmatising: the goal is protection, not blaming a whole community.

    Clinical care and deinfibulation

    Care may involve a GP, specialist FGM clinic, gynaecologist, midwife, sexual health service, safeguarding team or mental health professional. Assessment should be consent-based and should explain what examination involves before it happens. Some people may not know what type of FGM they have, may have never been examined, or may fear judgement. Sensitive explanation and choice are essential.

    Deinfibulation is a procedure to open scar tissue in type 3 FGM. It may be discussed for urinary or menstrual problems, painful sex, smear testing, pregnancy care or birth planning. Suitability is confirmed after specialist assessment. People should be told what the procedure involves, pain relief options, healing time, sexual activity advice, psychological support and whether follow-up is needed.

    Sex, pregnancy and mental health

    FGM can affect sex through pain, fear, reduced sensation, difficulty with penetration, flashbacks or relationship strain. Sexual difficulties after FGM are health concerns, not personal failings. Support may include medical assessment, deinfibulation where relevant, pelvic health physiotherapy, psychosexual therapy, trauma support and careful use of lubricants or vaginal moisturisers if dryness or pain is present.

    Pregnancy care should ask about FGM early so maternity teams can plan safely. Type 3 FGM may need deinfibulation before pregnancy, during pregnancy or in labour depending on circumstances and local specialist advice. Mental health effects can include anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress symptoms, shame, anger or numbness. Survivors should be offered support that respects privacy, culture, language needs and personal safety.

    Getting help and urgent protection

    If a girl or woman is in immediate danger of FGM, call 999. If there is a concern that a child may be taken abroad for FGM, contact police, childrenā€™s social care or a safeguarding professional urgently. Adults can ask a GP, midwife, sexual health clinic or specialist FGM service for help with symptoms, deinfibulation, pregnancy planning, counselling or safeguarding worries.

    Healthcare should never require a survivor to retell traumatic details repeatedly when notes can be shared safely with consent. Interpreting should be arranged professionally where needed, rather than relying on family members. If privacy is unsafe at home, services should discuss safe contact methods before sending letters, texts or appointment details.

    When to seek medical advice

    Seek medical advice for pelvic pain, painful sex, urinary problems, recurrent infections, period problems, pregnancy, flashbacks, anxiety, depression or concerns about a girl at risk. Prompt help is important for bleeding, fever, severe pain, inability to pass urine or immediate safeguarding danger.

    Use NHS 111 for urgent health advice when symptoms are worrying but not immediately life-threatening. Call 999 if someone is in immediate danger, has severe bleeding, collapses or needs emergency protection.

    Reader review points

    Care for FGM should move at the survivorā€™s pace unless there is immediate danger. The person may need to know who will be in the room, whether an examination is necessary, whether they can stop at any time, how information will be recorded, and what will happen if a child may be at risk. Clear explanation can reduce the chance that healthcare itself feels frightening or disempowering.

    Professionals should avoid assumptions about culture, sexuality, family relationships or what the person wants next. Some survivors want urgent treatment, some want time to understand their anatomy, some need maternity planning, and some mainly need psychological support or safeguarding advice. The most useful plan is specific, trauma-informed and documented, with safe contact arrangements if privacy at home is uncertain.

    Where children may be at risk, delay can increase harm. Safeguarding action should be proportionate, documented and focused on protection. For adults, care should still be empowering: explain choices, ask permission, use professional interpreters where needed, and check whether letters, calls or digital messages could place the person at risk.

    Sources

    Disclaimer

    Educational only. Results vary. Not a cure.

  • Female genital mutilation and pregnancy

    Female genital mutilation and pregnancy

    Female genital mutilation and pregnancy

    Table of Contents

    Key takeaways

    • Female genital mutilation is abuse, is illegal in the UK and should be handled as both a health and safeguarding concern.
    • FGM can cause immediate and long-term physical, sexual, pregnancy and mental health effects, even years after it happened.
    • Support should be trauma-informed, confidential where possible, and clear about safeguarding duties for girls and women at risk.
    • Deinfibulation may help some people with type 3 FGM, painful sex, urinary problems, pregnancy or birth planning after specialist assessment.
    • Call 999 if someone is in immediate danger; use NHS 111 or specialist services for urgent health concerns.

    Overview

    Pregnancy care should identify FGM early so birth planning, deinfibulation and safeguarding can be discussed safely.

    Female genital mutilation means deliberately cutting, injuring or changing female genital tissue for non-medical reasons. It is sometimes called cutting or female circumcision, but clinical writing should be clear that it is harmful and illegal in the UK. People affected by FGM may be children, teenagers or adults, and they may need safeguarding, medical care, maternity planning, sexual health support and psychological help.

    The original article and thin draft were read locally before this rewrite. This replacement keeps the articleā€™s specific focus while meeting current editorial standards: trauma-informed language, clear safeguarding, practical clinical detail and relevant UK authority sources. The article is educational only and cannot replace urgent protection or specialist assessment.

    Types and health effects

    FGM is often classified into types based on what tissue was cut or sealed. Type 1 involves partial or total removal of the clitoral glans or prepuce. Type 2 involves removal of the clitoral glans and labia minora, with or without labia majora. Type 3, infibulation, narrows the vaginal opening by creating a seal. Type 4 includes other harmful procedures such as pricking, piercing, scraping or cauterising for non-medical reasons.

    Immediate effects can include severe pain, bleeding, shock, infection, urinary retention and injury to nearby tissues. Long-term effects can include chronic pain, painful periods, difficulty passing urine, recurrent infections, cysts, scarring, painful sex, reduced sexual wellbeing, childbirth complications and psychological trauma. The severity of visible cutting does not always predict the severity of distress or symptoms.

    Safeguarding and the law

    FGM is illegal in the UK. It is also illegal to take a girl abroad to have FGM carried out. Professionals may have safeguarding and mandatory reporting duties when a child is at risk or FGM is identified in someone under 18. Adults affected by FGM should be offered respectful care, information and choices, but safeguarding still matters if a child or another person may be at risk.

    Risk factors can include a family history of FGM, planned travel to a country or community where FGM is practised, relatives discussing a special ceremony, pressure from family members, or a girl being withdrawn from school or healthcare before travel. Risk assessment should be careful and non-stigmatising: the goal is protection, not blaming a whole community.

    Clinical care and deinfibulation

    Care may involve a GP, specialist FGM clinic, gynaecologist, midwife, sexual health service, safeguarding team or mental health professional. Assessment should be consent-based and should explain what examination involves before it happens. Some people may not know what type of FGM they have, may have never been examined, or may fear judgement. Sensitive explanation and choice are essential.

    Deinfibulation is a procedure to open scar tissue in type 3 FGM. It may be discussed for urinary or menstrual problems, painful sex, smear testing, pregnancy care or birth planning. Suitability is confirmed after specialist assessment. People should be told what the procedure involves, pain relief options, healing time, sexual activity advice, psychological support and whether follow-up is needed.

    Sex, pregnancy and mental health

    FGM can affect sex through pain, fear, reduced sensation, difficulty with penetration, flashbacks or relationship strain. Sexual difficulties after FGM are health concerns, not personal failings. Support may include medical assessment, deinfibulation where relevant, pelvic health physiotherapy, psychosexual therapy, trauma support and careful use of lubricants or vaginal moisturisers if dryness or pain is present.

    Pregnancy care should ask about FGM early so maternity teams can plan safely. Type 3 FGM may need deinfibulation before pregnancy, during pregnancy or in labour depending on circumstances and local specialist advice. Mental health effects can include anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress symptoms, shame, anger or numbness. Survivors should be offered support that respects privacy, culture, language needs and personal safety.

    Getting help and urgent protection

    If a girl or woman is in immediate danger of FGM, call 999. If there is a concern that a child may be taken abroad for FGM, contact police, childrenā€™s social care or a safeguarding professional urgently. Adults can ask a GP, midwife, sexual health clinic or specialist FGM service for help with symptoms, deinfibulation, pregnancy planning, counselling or safeguarding worries.

    Healthcare should never require a survivor to retell traumatic details repeatedly when notes can be shared safely with consent. Interpreting should be arranged professionally where needed, rather than relying on family members. If privacy is unsafe at home, services should discuss safe contact methods before sending letters, texts or appointment details.

    When to seek medical advice

    Seek medical advice for pelvic pain, painful sex, urinary problems, recurrent infections, period problems, pregnancy, flashbacks, anxiety, depression or concerns about a girl at risk. Prompt help is important for bleeding, fever, severe pain, inability to pass urine or immediate safeguarding danger.

    Use NHS 111 for urgent health advice when symptoms are worrying but not immediately life-threatening. Call 999 if someone is in immediate danger, has severe bleeding, collapses or needs emergency protection.

    Reader review points

    Care for FGM should move at the survivorā€™s pace unless there is immediate danger. The person may need to know who will be in the room, whether an examination is necessary, whether they can stop at any time, how information will be recorded, and what will happen if a child may be at risk. Clear explanation can reduce the chance that healthcare itself feels frightening or disempowering.

    Professionals should avoid assumptions about culture, sexuality, family relationships or what the person wants next. Some survivors want urgent treatment, some want time to understand their anatomy, some need maternity planning, and some mainly need psychological support or safeguarding advice. The most useful plan is specific, trauma-informed and documented, with safe contact arrangements if privacy at home is uncertain.

    Where children may be at risk, delay can increase harm. Safeguarding action should be proportionate, documented and focused on protection. For adults, care should still be empowering: explain choices, ask permission, use professional interpreters where needed, and check whether letters, calls or digital messages could place the person at risk.

    Sources

    Disclaimer

    Educational only. Results vary. Not a cure.

  • Female genital mutilation and mental health

    Female genital mutilation and mental health

    Female genital mutilation and mental health

    Table of Contents

    Key takeaways

    • Female genital mutilation is abuse, is illegal in the UK and should be handled as both a health and safeguarding concern.
    • FGM can cause immediate and long-term physical, sexual, pregnancy and mental health effects, even years after it happened.
    • Support should be trauma-informed, confidential where possible, and clear about safeguarding duties for girls and women at risk.
    • Deinfibulation may help some people with type 3 FGM, painful sex, urinary problems, pregnancy or birth planning after specialist assessment.
    • Call 999 if someone is in immediate danger; use NHS 111 or specialist services for urgent health concerns.

    Overview

    FGM can be linked with trauma, anxiety, depression, flashbacks and sexual distress, so psychological support may be needed.

    Female genital mutilation means deliberately cutting, injuring or changing female genital tissue for non-medical reasons. It is sometimes called cutting or female circumcision, but clinical writing should be clear that it is harmful and illegal in the UK. People affected by FGM may be children, teenagers or adults, and they may need safeguarding, medical care, maternity planning, sexual health support and psychological help.

    The original article and thin draft were read locally before this rewrite. This replacement keeps the articleā€™s specific focus while meeting current editorial standards: trauma-informed language, clear safeguarding, practical clinical detail and relevant UK authority sources. The article is educational only and cannot replace urgent protection or specialist assessment.

    Types and health effects

    FGM is often classified into types based on what tissue was cut or sealed. Type 1 involves partial or total removal of the clitoral glans or prepuce. Type 2 involves removal of the clitoral glans and labia minora, with or without labia majora. Type 3, infibulation, narrows the vaginal opening by creating a seal. Type 4 includes other harmful procedures such as pricking, piercing, scraping or cauterising for non-medical reasons.

    Immediate effects can include severe pain, bleeding, shock, infection, urinary retention and injury to nearby tissues. Long-term effects can include chronic pain, painful periods, difficulty passing urine, recurrent infections, cysts, scarring, painful sex, reduced sexual wellbeing, childbirth complications and psychological trauma. The severity of visible cutting does not always predict the severity of distress or symptoms.

    Safeguarding and the law

    FGM is illegal in the UK. It is also illegal to take a girl abroad to have FGM carried out. Professionals may have safeguarding and mandatory reporting duties when a child is at risk or FGM is identified in someone under 18. Adults affected by FGM should be offered respectful care, information and choices, but safeguarding still matters if a child or another person may be at risk.

    Risk factors can include a family history of FGM, planned travel to a country or community where FGM is practised, relatives discussing a special ceremony, pressure from family members, or a girl being withdrawn from school or healthcare before travel. Risk assessment should be careful and non-stigmatising: the goal is protection, not blaming a whole community.

    Clinical care and deinfibulation

    Care may involve a GP, specialist FGM clinic, gynaecologist, midwife, sexual health service, safeguarding team or mental health professional. Assessment should be consent-based and should explain what examination involves before it happens. Some people may not know what type of FGM they have, may have never been examined, or may fear judgement. Sensitive explanation and choice are essential.

    Deinfibulation is a procedure to open scar tissue in type 3 FGM. It may be discussed for urinary or menstrual problems, painful sex, smear testing, pregnancy care or birth planning. Suitability is confirmed after specialist assessment. People should be told what the procedure involves, pain relief options, healing time, sexual activity advice, psychological support and whether follow-up is needed.

    Sex, pregnancy and mental health

    FGM can affect sex through pain, fear, reduced sensation, difficulty with penetration, flashbacks or relationship strain. Sexual difficulties after FGM are health concerns, not personal failings. Support may include medical assessment, deinfibulation where relevant, pelvic health physiotherapy, psychosexual therapy, trauma support and careful use of lubricants or vaginal moisturisers if dryness or pain is present.

    Pregnancy care should ask about FGM early so maternity teams can plan safely. Type 3 FGM may need deinfibulation before pregnancy, during pregnancy or in labour depending on circumstances and local specialist advice. Mental health effects can include anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress symptoms, shame, anger or numbness. Survivors should be offered support that respects privacy, culture, language needs and personal safety.

    Getting help and urgent protection

    If a girl or woman is in immediate danger of FGM, call 999. If there is a concern that a child may be taken abroad for FGM, contact police, childrenā€™s social care or a safeguarding professional urgently. Adults can ask a GP, midwife, sexual health clinic or specialist FGM service for help with symptoms, deinfibulation, pregnancy planning, counselling or safeguarding worries.

    Healthcare should never require a survivor to retell traumatic details repeatedly when notes can be shared safely with consent. Interpreting should be arranged professionally where needed, rather than relying on family members. If privacy is unsafe at home, services should discuss safe contact methods before sending letters, texts or appointment details.

    When to seek medical advice

    Seek medical advice for pelvic pain, painful sex, urinary problems, recurrent infections, period problems, pregnancy, flashbacks, anxiety, depression or concerns about a girl at risk. Prompt help is important for bleeding, fever, severe pain, inability to pass urine or immediate safeguarding danger.

    Use NHS 111 for urgent health advice when symptoms are worrying but not immediately life-threatening. Call 999 if someone is in immediate danger, has severe bleeding, collapses or needs emergency protection.

    Reader review points

    Care for FGM should move at the survivorā€™s pace unless there is immediate danger. The person may need to know who will be in the room, whether an examination is necessary, whether they can stop at any time, how information will be recorded, and what will happen if a child may be at risk. Clear explanation can reduce the chance that healthcare itself feels frightening or disempowering.

    Professionals should avoid assumptions about culture, sexuality, family relationships or what the person wants next. Some survivors want urgent treatment, some want time to understand their anatomy, some need maternity planning, and some mainly need psychological support or safeguarding advice. The most useful plan is specific, trauma-informed and documented, with safe contact arrangements if privacy at home is uncertain.

    Where children may be at risk, delay can increase harm. Safeguarding action should be proportionate, documented and focused on protection. For adults, care should still be empowering: explain choices, ask permission, use professional interpreters where needed, and check whether letters, calls or digital messages could place the person at risk.

    Sources

    Disclaimer

    Educational only. Results vary. Not a cure.

  • Treatment for Female genital mutilation (deinfibulation)

    Treatment for Female genital mutilation (deinfibulation)

    Treatment for Female genital mutilation (deinfibulation)

    Table of Contents

    Key takeaways

    • Female genital mutilation is abuse, is illegal in the UK and should be handled as both a health and safeguarding concern.
    • FGM can cause immediate and long-term physical, sexual, pregnancy and mental health effects, even years after it happened.
    • Support should be trauma-informed, confidential where possible, and clear about safeguarding duties for girls and women at risk.
    • Deinfibulation may help some people with type 3 FGM, painful sex, urinary problems, pregnancy or birth planning after specialist assessment.
    • Call 999 if someone is in immediate danger; use NHS 111 or specialist services for urgent health concerns.

    Overview

    Deinfibulation is a procedure to open scar tissue in type 3 FGM and may be discussed before sex, pregnancy or birth.

    Female genital mutilation means deliberately cutting, injuring or changing female genital tissue for non-medical reasons. It is sometimes called cutting or female circumcision, but clinical writing should be clear that it is harmful and illegal in the UK. People affected by FGM may be children, teenagers or adults, and they may need safeguarding, medical care, maternity planning, sexual health support and psychological help.

    The original article and thin draft were read locally before this rewrite. This replacement keeps the articleā€™s specific focus while meeting current editorial standards: trauma-informed language, clear safeguarding, practical clinical detail and relevant UK authority sources. The article is educational only and cannot replace urgent protection or specialist assessment.

    Types and health effects

    FGM is often classified into types based on what tissue was cut or sealed. Type 1 involves partial or total removal of the clitoral glans or prepuce. Type 2 involves removal of the clitoral glans and labia minora, with or without labia majora. Type 3, infibulation, narrows the vaginal opening by creating a seal. Type 4 includes other harmful procedures such as pricking, piercing, scraping or cauterising for non-medical reasons.

    Immediate effects can include severe pain, bleeding, shock, infection, urinary retention and injury to nearby tissues. Long-term effects can include chronic pain, painful periods, difficulty passing urine, recurrent infections, cysts, scarring, painful sex, reduced sexual wellbeing, childbirth complications and psychological trauma. The severity of visible cutting does not always predict the severity of distress or symptoms.

    Safeguarding and the law

    FGM is illegal in the UK. It is also illegal to take a girl abroad to have FGM carried out. Professionals may have safeguarding and mandatory reporting duties when a child is at risk or FGM is identified in someone under 18. Adults affected by FGM should be offered respectful care, information and choices, but safeguarding still matters if a child or another person may be at risk.

    Risk factors can include a family history of FGM, planned travel to a country or community where FGM is practised, relatives discussing a special ceremony, pressure from family members, or a girl being withdrawn from school or healthcare before travel. Risk assessment should be careful and non-stigmatising: the goal is protection, not blaming a whole community.

    Clinical care and deinfibulation

    Care may involve a GP, specialist FGM clinic, gynaecologist, midwife, sexual health service, safeguarding team or mental health professional. Assessment should be consent-based and should explain what examination involves before it happens. Some people may not know what type of FGM they have, may have never been examined, or may fear judgement. Sensitive explanation and choice are essential.

    Deinfibulation is a procedure to open scar tissue in type 3 FGM. It may be discussed for urinary or menstrual problems, painful sex, smear testing, pregnancy care or birth planning. Suitability is confirmed after specialist assessment. People should be told what the procedure involves, pain relief options, healing time, sexual activity advice, psychological support and whether follow-up is needed.

    Sex, pregnancy and mental health

    FGM can affect sex through pain, fear, reduced sensation, difficulty with penetration, flashbacks or relationship strain. Sexual difficulties after FGM are health concerns, not personal failings. Support may include medical assessment, deinfibulation where relevant, pelvic health physiotherapy, psychosexual therapy, trauma support and careful use of lubricants or vaginal moisturisers if dryness or pain is present.

    Pregnancy care should ask about FGM early so maternity teams can plan safely. Type 3 FGM may need deinfibulation before pregnancy, during pregnancy or in labour depending on circumstances and local specialist advice. Mental health effects can include anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress symptoms, shame, anger or numbness. Survivors should be offered support that respects privacy, culture, language needs and personal safety.

    Getting help and urgent protection

    If a girl or woman is in immediate danger of FGM, call 999. If there is a concern that a child may be taken abroad for FGM, contact police, childrenā€™s social care or a safeguarding professional urgently. Adults can ask a GP, midwife, sexual health clinic or specialist FGM service for help with symptoms, deinfibulation, pregnancy planning, counselling or safeguarding worries.

    Healthcare should never require a survivor to retell traumatic details repeatedly when notes can be shared safely with consent. Interpreting should be arranged professionally where needed, rather than relying on family members. If privacy is unsafe at home, services should discuss safe contact methods before sending letters, texts or appointment details.

    When to seek medical advice

    Seek medical advice for pelvic pain, painful sex, urinary problems, recurrent infections, period problems, pregnancy, flashbacks, anxiety, depression or concerns about a girl at risk. Prompt help is important for bleeding, fever, severe pain, inability to pass urine or immediate safeguarding danger.

    Use NHS 111 for urgent health advice when symptoms are worrying but not immediately life-threatening. Call 999 if someone is in immediate danger, has severe bleeding, collapses or needs emergency protection.

    Reader review points

    Care for FGM should move at the survivorā€™s pace unless there is immediate danger. The person may need to know who will be in the room, whether an examination is necessary, whether they can stop at any time, how information will be recorded, and what will happen if a child may be at risk. Clear explanation can reduce the chance that healthcare itself feels frightening or disempowering.

    Professionals should avoid assumptions about culture, sexuality, family relationships or what the person wants next. Some survivors want urgent treatment, some want time to understand their anatomy, some need maternity planning, and some mainly need psychological support or safeguarding advice. The most useful plan is specific, trauma-informed and documented, with safe contact arrangements if privacy at home is uncertain.

    Where children may be at risk, delay can increase harm. Safeguarding action should be proportionate, documented and focused on protection. For adults, care should still be empowering: explain choices, ask permission, use professional interpreters where needed, and check whether letters, calls or digital messages could place the person at risk.

    Sources

    Disclaimer

    Educational only. Results vary. Not a cure.

  • Why Female genital mutilation is carried out

    Why Female genital mutilation is carried out

    Why Female genital mutilation is carried out

    Table of Contents

    Key takeaways

    • Female genital mutilation is abuse, is illegal in the UK and should be handled as both a health and safeguarding concern.
    • FGM can cause immediate and long-term physical, sexual, pregnancy and mental health effects, even years after it happened.
    • Support should be trauma-informed, confidential where possible, and clear about safeguarding duties for girls and women at risk.
    • Deinfibulation may help some people with type 3 FGM, painful sex, urinary problems, pregnancy or birth planning after specialist assessment.
    • Call 999 if someone is in immediate danger; use NHS 111 or specialist services for urgent health concerns.

    Overview

    Explaining why FGM is carried out must never normalise it; the practice is abuse and is illegal in the UK.

    Female genital mutilation means deliberately cutting, injuring or changing female genital tissue for non-medical reasons. It is sometimes called cutting or female circumcision, but clinical writing should be clear that it is harmful and illegal in the UK. People affected by FGM may be children, teenagers or adults, and they may need safeguarding, medical care, maternity planning, sexual health support and psychological help.

    The original article and thin draft were read locally before this rewrite. This replacement keeps the articleā€™s specific focus while meeting current editorial standards: trauma-informed language, clear safeguarding, practical clinical detail and relevant UK authority sources. The article is educational only and cannot replace urgent protection or specialist assessment.

    Types and health effects

    FGM is often classified into types based on what tissue was cut or sealed. Type 1 involves partial or total removal of the clitoral glans or prepuce. Type 2 involves removal of the clitoral glans and labia minora, with or without labia majora. Type 3, infibulation, narrows the vaginal opening by creating a seal. Type 4 includes other harmful procedures such as pricking, piercing, scraping or cauterising for non-medical reasons.

    Immediate effects can include severe pain, bleeding, shock, infection, urinary retention and injury to nearby tissues. Long-term effects can include chronic pain, painful periods, difficulty passing urine, recurrent infections, cysts, scarring, painful sex, reduced sexual wellbeing, childbirth complications and psychological trauma. The severity of visible cutting does not always predict the severity of distress or symptoms.

    Safeguarding and the law

    FGM is illegal in the UK. It is also illegal to take a girl abroad to have FGM carried out. Professionals may have safeguarding and mandatory reporting duties when a child is at risk or FGM is identified in someone under 18. Adults affected by FGM should be offered respectful care, information and choices, but safeguarding still matters if a child or another person may be at risk.

    Risk factors can include a family history of FGM, planned travel to a country or community where FGM is practised, relatives discussing a special ceremony, pressure from family members, or a girl being withdrawn from school or healthcare before travel. Risk assessment should be careful and non-stigmatising: the goal is protection, not blaming a whole community.

    Clinical care and deinfibulation

    Care may involve a GP, specialist FGM clinic, gynaecologist, midwife, sexual health service, safeguarding team or mental health professional. Assessment should be consent-based and should explain what examination involves before it happens. Some people may not know what type of FGM they have, may have never been examined, or may fear judgement. Sensitive explanation and choice are essential.

    Deinfibulation is a procedure to open scar tissue in type 3 FGM. It may be discussed for urinary or menstrual problems, painful sex, smear testing, pregnancy care or birth planning. Suitability is confirmed after specialist assessment. People should be told what the procedure involves, pain relief options, healing time, sexual activity advice, psychological support and whether follow-up is needed.

    Sex, pregnancy and mental health

    FGM can affect sex through pain, fear, reduced sensation, difficulty with penetration, flashbacks or relationship strain. Sexual difficulties after FGM are health concerns, not personal failings. Support may include medical assessment, deinfibulation where relevant, pelvic health physiotherapy, psychosexual therapy, trauma support and careful use of lubricants or vaginal moisturisers if dryness or pain is present.

    Pregnancy care should ask about FGM early so maternity teams can plan safely. Type 3 FGM may need deinfibulation before pregnancy, during pregnancy or in labour depending on circumstances and local specialist advice. Mental health effects can include anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress symptoms, shame, anger or numbness. Survivors should be offered support that respects privacy, culture, language needs and personal safety.

    Getting help and urgent protection

    If a girl or woman is in immediate danger of FGM, call 999. If there is a concern that a child may be taken abroad for FGM, contact police, childrenā€™s social care or a safeguarding professional urgently. Adults can ask a GP, midwife, sexual health clinic or specialist FGM service for help with symptoms, deinfibulation, pregnancy planning, counselling or safeguarding worries.

    Healthcare should never require a survivor to retell traumatic details repeatedly when notes can be shared safely with consent. Interpreting should be arranged professionally where needed, rather than relying on family members. If privacy is unsafe at home, services should discuss safe contact methods before sending letters, texts or appointment details.

    When to seek medical advice

    Seek medical advice for pelvic pain, painful sex, urinary problems, recurrent infections, period problems, pregnancy, flashbacks, anxiety, depression or concerns about a girl at risk. Prompt help is important for bleeding, fever, severe pain, inability to pass urine or immediate safeguarding danger.

    Use NHS 111 for urgent health advice when symptoms are worrying but not immediately life-threatening. Call 999 if someone is in immediate danger, has severe bleeding, collapses or needs emergency protection.

    Reader review points

    Care for FGM should move at the survivorā€™s pace unless there is immediate danger. The person may need to know who will be in the room, whether an examination is necessary, whether they can stop at any time, how information will be recorded, and what will happen if a child may be at risk. Clear explanation can reduce the chance that healthcare itself feels frightening or disempowering.

    Professionals should avoid assumptions about culture, sexuality, family relationships or what the person wants next. Some survivors want urgent treatment, some want time to understand their anatomy, some need maternity planning, and some mainly need psychological support or safeguarding advice. The most useful plan is specific, trauma-informed and documented, with safe contact arrangements if privacy at home is uncertain.

    Where children may be at risk, delay can increase harm. Safeguarding action should be proportionate, documented and focused on protection. For adults, care should still be empowering: explain choices, ask permission, use professional interpreters where needed, and check whether letters, calls or digital messages could place the person at risk.

    Sources

    Disclaimer

    Educational only. Results vary. Not a cure.

  • The law and Female genital mutilation

    The law and Female genital mutilation

    The law and Female genital mutilation

    Table of Contents

    Key takeaways

    • Female genital mutilation is abuse, is illegal in the UK and should be handled as both a health and safeguarding concern.
    • FGM can cause immediate and long-term physical, sexual, pregnancy and mental health effects, even years after it happened.
    • Support should be trauma-informed, confidential where possible, and clear about safeguarding duties for girls and women at risk.
    • Deinfibulation may help some people with type 3 FGM, painful sex, urinary problems, pregnancy or birth planning after specialist assessment.
    • Call 999 if someone is in immediate danger; use NHS 111 or specialist services for urgent health concerns.

    Overview

    UK law prohibits FGM and includes safeguarding duties designed to protect girls and women at risk.

    Female genital mutilation means deliberately cutting, injuring or changing female genital tissue for non-medical reasons. It is sometimes called cutting or female circumcision, but clinical writing should be clear that it is harmful and illegal in the UK. People affected by FGM may be children, teenagers or adults, and they may need safeguarding, medical care, maternity planning, sexual health support and psychological help.

    The original article and thin draft were read locally before this rewrite. This replacement keeps the articleā€™s specific focus while meeting current editorial standards: trauma-informed language, clear safeguarding, practical clinical detail and relevant UK authority sources. The article is educational only and cannot replace urgent protection or specialist assessment.

    Types and health effects

    FGM is often classified into types based on what tissue was cut or sealed. Type 1 involves partial or total removal of the clitoral glans or prepuce. Type 2 involves removal of the clitoral glans and labia minora, with or without labia majora. Type 3, infibulation, narrows the vaginal opening by creating a seal. Type 4 includes other harmful procedures such as pricking, piercing, scraping or cauterising for non-medical reasons.

    Immediate effects can include severe pain, bleeding, shock, infection, urinary retention and injury to nearby tissues. Long-term effects can include chronic pain, painful periods, difficulty passing urine, recurrent infections, cysts, scarring, painful sex, reduced sexual wellbeing, childbirth complications and psychological trauma. The severity of visible cutting does not always predict the severity of distress or symptoms.

    Safeguarding and the law

    FGM is illegal in the UK. It is also illegal to take a girl abroad to have FGM carried out. Professionals may have safeguarding and mandatory reporting duties when a child is at risk or FGM is identified in someone under 18. Adults affected by FGM should be offered respectful care, information and choices, but safeguarding still matters if a child or another person may be at risk.

    Risk factors can include a family history of FGM, planned travel to a country or community where FGM is practised, relatives discussing a special ceremony, pressure from family members, or a girl being withdrawn from school or healthcare before travel. Risk assessment should be careful and non-stigmatising: the goal is protection, not blaming a whole community.

    Clinical care and deinfibulation

    Care may involve a GP, specialist FGM clinic, gynaecologist, midwife, sexual health service, safeguarding team or mental health professional. Assessment should be consent-based and should explain what examination involves before it happens. Some people may not know what type of FGM they have, may have never been examined, or may fear judgement. Sensitive explanation and choice are essential.

    Deinfibulation is a procedure to open scar tissue in type 3 FGM. It may be discussed for urinary or menstrual problems, painful sex, smear testing, pregnancy care or birth planning. Suitability is confirmed after specialist assessment. People should be told what the procedure involves, pain relief options, healing time, sexual activity advice, psychological support and whether follow-up is needed.

    Sex, pregnancy and mental health

    FGM can affect sex through pain, fear, reduced sensation, difficulty with penetration, flashbacks or relationship strain. Sexual difficulties after FGM are health concerns, not personal failings. Support may include medical assessment, deinfibulation where relevant, pelvic health physiotherapy, psychosexual therapy, trauma support and careful use of lubricants or vaginal moisturisers if dryness or pain is present.

    Pregnancy care should ask about FGM early so maternity teams can plan safely. Type 3 FGM may need deinfibulation before pregnancy, during pregnancy or in labour depending on circumstances and local specialist advice. Mental health effects can include anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress symptoms, shame, anger or numbness. Survivors should be offered support that respects privacy, culture, language needs and personal safety.

    Getting help and urgent protection

    If a girl or woman is in immediate danger of FGM, call 999. If there is a concern that a child may be taken abroad for FGM, contact police, childrenā€™s social care or a safeguarding professional urgently. Adults can ask a GP, midwife, sexual health clinic or specialist FGM service for help with symptoms, deinfibulation, pregnancy planning, counselling or safeguarding worries.

    Healthcare should never require a survivor to retell traumatic details repeatedly when notes can be shared safely with consent. Interpreting should be arranged professionally where needed, rather than relying on family members. If privacy is unsafe at home, services should discuss safe contact methods before sending letters, texts or appointment details.

    When to seek medical advice

    Seek medical advice for pelvic pain, painful sex, urinary problems, recurrent infections, period problems, pregnancy, flashbacks, anxiety, depression or concerns about a girl at risk. Prompt help is important for bleeding, fever, severe pain, inability to pass urine or immediate safeguarding danger.

    Use NHS 111 for urgent health advice when symptoms are worrying but not immediately life-threatening. Call 999 if someone is in immediate danger, has severe bleeding, collapses or needs emergency protection.

    Reader review points

    Care for FGM should move at the survivorā€™s pace unless there is immediate danger. The person may need to know who will be in the room, whether an examination is necessary, whether they can stop at any time, how information will be recorded, and what will happen if a child may be at risk. Clear explanation can reduce the chance that healthcare itself feels frightening or disempowering.

    Professionals should avoid assumptions about culture, sexuality, family relationships or what the person wants next. Some survivors want urgent treatment, some want time to understand their anatomy, some need maternity planning, and some mainly need psychological support or safeguarding advice. The most useful plan is specific, trauma-informed and documented, with safe contact arrangements if privacy at home is uncertain.

    Where children may be at risk, delay can increase harm. Safeguarding action should be proportionate, documented and focused on protection. For adults, care should still be empowering: explain choices, ask permission, use professional interpreters where needed, and check whether letters, calls or digital messages could place the person at risk.

    Sources

    Disclaimer

    Educational only. Results vary. Not a cure.