Female genital mutilation (FGM/C) refers to procedures that intentionally alter or injure female genital organs for non-medical reasons. It is common in parts of Africa, and some countries in the Middle East and Asia such as Yemen. It is usually carried out before the age of 15, but can happen at any time from birth onwards.

FGM/C is agonizing. It is almost always carried out by the local circumcisor, who is often the traditional birth attendant, using a razor or other blade without anaesthetic. Girls can die of shock and blood loss at the time, as well as from infection at a later date. It is a huge psychological trauma and it can make sex painful and birth difficult.

Women who have undergone FGM/C are more likely to die in childbirth and their baby is more likely to be stillborn.

Around 100 to 140 million girls and women worldwide are currently living with the consequences of FGM/C, and each year around three million girls in Africa are at risk of suffering the procedure.12 However, when women in communities are empowered to take their own initiatives against FGM/C, the practice can be stopped