FGM is a very upsetting and distressing experience and it’s important to remember that it's wrong and you don’t need to suffer alone.
FGM happens when a girl’s private parts are removed or altered. FGM is abuse, and it’s illegal in the UK. If you or someone you know is worried about FGM, you can talk to Childline. Our counsellors are here to support you.
You can talk to us about how you’re feeling and what you might like to do next. We can also help you get any medical advice or treatment you might need.
If you’re in pain or feel unwell, it’s really important that you get medical help.
Your doctor can help you, even if it’s not an emergency. The NHS provides specialist healthcare for women and girls who have had FGM. If it’s available where you live, they can arrange this for you.
You can also call 111 if you’re not sure what to do. They can talk to you about the best way to get medical help. Find out more on the NHS website.
You should call 999 if your life is in danger. Or if you need help straight away you can go to your local hospital’s Accident and Emergency department (A&E).
You might be feeling pressured to have FGM, especially if other people in your family have been cut. This may make you feel scared or alone, but there are people who can help. Your body is your own, not anybody else's.
If you think you’re in immediate danger of being cut or being taken abroad for this to happen, you can call the police (dial 999), or you could speak to a teacher or adult you trust. The police are there to keep you safe.
If you’re worried you might be forced to have FGM in the future, talk to a trusted adult, such as a teacher at school, or a doctor. You don’t have to worry alone.
Childline is here for you too. Contact us.
FGM, sometimes referred to as female circumcision, is when a girl’s genitals (private parts) are altered or removed. It can cause long-lasting damage as well as ongoing emotional distress.
The operation is usually done by someone who doesn’t have any medical training. Girls are given no anaesthetic, no antiseptic treatment and are often forced to keep still.
The cutting is made using tools such as a knife, pair of scissors, scalpel, glass or razor blade.
FGM can be extremely painful and dangerous. It can cause:
It can also cause problems later on. You may experience difficulties in childbirth, or need medical treatment. Blood loss and infections can cause death in some cases.
FGM can also cause emotional distress at the time and in the future, and it might lead to anxiety and depression.
5 facts about FGM:
If you’re worried, our counsellors are always here to support you. But if things are feeling really scary or you need help right away, you can call 999 for immediate support.
my mother used to warn me
BAD THINGS
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You might worry that:
It’s normal to feel this way and it’s okay to have these feelings. It’s not unusual to have a good relationship with the person that wants you to be cut, but feel upset that they want this to happen. It could make you worry. Or feel stressed or angry.
Remember, FGM is abuse and is illegal and you have the right to speak out and stay safe. You don’t have to go through this alone. Childline is always here for you.
If you're going abroad, you can take this statement opposing female genital mutilation with you.
You can show it to your family so they know FGM is a serious criminal offence. Put it in your passport and keep it with you all the time.
Childline is part of the NSPCC and we work together to help young people.
NSPCC wants to make sure you get support if you or someone you know is worried about FGM so they’ve got a helpline just for these kinds of worries.
You can contact the NSPCC helpline by emailing [email protected] or calling free on 0800 028 3550
If you're abroad you can call +44 800 028 3550 but check call charges first.
National FGM Centre has information and advice on what to do if you are worried.
Petals has facts, support and information on how to take action.
NHS Choices has medical advice and information about FGM.
Forward provides advice and counselling for anyone affected by FGM.
GOV.UK shares a quick list of places where you can get help.
Bawso supports people in Wales who have worries about FGM and abuse.
