Female genital mutilation: Time for action

Female genital mutilation (FGM) comprises all procedures involving partial or total removal of the external female genitalia or other injury to the female genital organs for nonmedical reasons. The practice has no known health benefits, is psychologically and physically harmful, and is a violation of human rights. About 70,000 women and girls living in the UK have had some form of FGM, and 20,000 young girls under the age of 15 years are thought to be at risk either in this country or abroad.