What is female mutilation?

Female genital mutilation (FGM), also known as female circumcision, is the ritual cutting or removal of some or all of the external female genitalia. The practice is mostly carried out on young girls between the ages of 4 and 12, but can also be performed on adult women.

FGM is practiced in many parts of Africa, the Middle East, and Asia. It is estimated that over 200 million women and girls worldwide have undergone some form of FGM.

There are several types of FGM, including:

* Type 1: Clitoridectomy, which is the partial or total removal of the clitoris

* Type 2: Excision, which is the partial or total removal of the clitoris and the labia minora

* Type 3: Infibulation, which is the narrowing of the vaginal opening by stitching or sealing the labia majora together

FGM is a harmful practice that can have serious physical and psychological consequences, including:

* Pain and bleeding

* Infection

* Infertility

* Sexual dysfunction

* Emotional trauma

* Death

FGM is a violation of human rights and is illegal in many countries. However, the practice continues to be carried out in some communities due to cultural beliefs and social pressure.

There are a number of organizations working to end FGM around the world. These organizations provide education and support to communities that practice FGM, and they work to change the social norms that perpetuate the practice.