FGM

Question 1

Signs FGM is about to take place

Answer 1

Family belongs to a community where FGM is practiced
May mention a special procedure/ceremony which is about to take place
May occur when a female family elder is around

Question 2

Signs FGM has taken place

Answer 2

A prolonged absence from school with behavioural changes
Present with bladder or menstrual problems but be reluctant to undergo examinations
May ask for help but not be explicit about the cause

Question 3

Different names for FGM

Answer 3

Female circumcision
Female genital excision
Female genital cutting

Question 4

Causes of FGM

Answer 4

Culture/religion
Perceptions of cleanliness
Increase sexual pleasure/control for men
reduce pleasure for women –> reduce female promiscuity (family honour)

Question 5

Where is FGM carried out?

Answer 5

29 countries in africa and the middle east, but elsewhere due to migration
Particularly: Somalia, Nigeria,

Question 6

Who is at risk of FGM?

Answer 6

Over 125 million girls & women have suffered FGM in over 35 countries
3 million girls undergo FGM per year
In 50% of cases FGM is performed before the age of 5, in the other it is between 5-14yrs

Question 7

Methods to reduce FGM

Answer 7

Surveillance and legislation in UK
Communicating with groups to move away from FGM while retaining traditional rituals
Safe houses for girls fleeing FGM

Question 8

Types of FGM

Answer 8

Type 1 – Removal of the clitoral hood only (A) or hood and clitoris (B)
Type 2 – Removal of the clitoris and some or all of the labia minora
Type 3 – Removal of the clitoris & labia minora with the labia majora sewn together/removed leaving a small hole for urine/menstrual blood

Question 9

Type IV FGM

Answer 9

This includes any form of cutting or piercing of the clitoris (symbolic FGM) or other related procedures - Gishiri cutting