Tackling female genital mutilation in the UK

Abstract

Key content In the UK, female genital mutilation ( FGM) has been outlawed since 1985, yet the practice continues. The multiplicity of reasons given for the practice include tradition, religion and preservation of virginity., The procedure can lead to numerous and deleterious physical, psychological and sexual effects., Legislating against FGM provides an official platform to back up the position of activists and community members that do not wish to continue with the practice., However, the legislative developments, including mandatory recording and reporting of FGM cases, need to go hand in hand with the training of healthcare professionals, improving health and social service provisions, robust political commitment and education and empowerment of FGM-practising communities., Learning objectives To define FGM, to understand the practice, the procedure and its consequences., To examine the legislative development in the UK., To look at how we can improve the services that care for women at risk or who have undergone FGM., Ethical issues Female genital cosmetic surgery., Mandatory reporting of FGM., Gender inequalities., Cultural/racial sensitivity.