What is FGM?
Female genital mutilation (FGM) can be defined as any operation which involves cutting away one or more parts of the female genitalia. In communities where it is practiced, it is commonly called “female circumcision” or “cutting.” FGM damages the woman’s reproductive organs and can cause serious complications and even death. FGM is often performed without anesthesia by untrained traditional midwives or laypersons with rudimentary health training, using knives, razor blades or pieces of glass. In addition to trauma, complications can include hemorrhage, infection, gangrene and urinary tract infection. Death can result from hemorrhage, blood poisoning, acute urinary retention, AIDS or other complications. Long-term health effects can include: painful menstruation and intercourse, infertility, prolonged and obstructed labor and other birthing complications, increased maternal and infant mortality rates, inability to obtain accurate pap smears or pelvic examinations, and psychological trau
