WHO (2000) defines FGM as ‘procedures involving partial or total removal of the external female genitalia or other injury to the female genital organs whether for cultural, religious or other non-therapeutic reasons'.
FGM is often called female circumcision implying that it is similar to male circumcision. However, the degree of cutting is far more extensive, often impairing a woman's sexual and reproductive functions and even the ability of girls and women to pass urine normally. This is why WHO refers to the practice as female genital mutilation. Female genital cutting is also used, particularly where the apparently judgemental phrase female genital mutilation might offend and lead to resistance to change.
FGM is a deeply rooted practice with culture and tradition given as the main reasons for its continuation (Momoh, 2003). It may sometimes be seen as an act of love or as a rite of passage by the practising community, which may find it difficult to understand why the practice is condemned and may believe that they are doing the best for their daughters.
Those that do not practise it generally view it as a form of abuse and a violation of human rights. This is the view taken by numerous international conventions, agencies and human rights groups, and by some women's groups and governments in areas where FGM is commonly practised.
The United Nations has recognised female genital mutilation (FGM) as a human rights violation. In the UK the practice is included in the UK Children Act and other legislation. There is recognition that it is practised in some minority communities in the UK.
More needs to be done to tackle FGM. The lack of data on FGM makes it difficult for policy makers and professionals to respond effectively to the needs of affected women and to protect girls from undergoing FGM. Within the UK, data used to support policy decisions have been at best estimates