Female Genital Mutilation and Cutting (FGM/C)

What is Female Genital Mutilation and Cutting (FGM/C)?

FGM/C is when parts of the female genital organs are cut or changed for reasons that are not medical. This is a form of gender-based violence and a serious violation of human rights.

FGM/C is also called:

• Female genital cutting
• Female circumcision
• Traditional cutting
• Ritual female surgery

FGM/C in Australia

FGM/C is illegal in Australia, but there are over 50,000 women and girls who may have experienced it. This practice can happen in any cultural or economic group and is a global issue. More than 200 million women around the world have undergone FGM/C.

When Does FGM/C Happen?

FGM/C is often done to girls between 0 and 15 years old, but it can also happen during the first pregnancy.

Myths and Facts About FGM/C

Some people believe FGM/C has benefits like better hygiene, fertility, and child survival. However, the World Health Organization says that FGM/C only harms women and girls.

Women and girls who have undergone FGM/C can experience:

• Severe Pain: Extreme physical discomfort that can be long-lasting including during sex.
• Fever: High body temperature as a reaction to the procedure.
• Infections: Bacterial infections from unclean cutting tools or unsanitary conditions.
• Urinary and Menstrual Problems: Difficulties with urination and menstrual cycles.
• Shock: A severe physical reaction to pain and trauma, which can be life-threatening.
• Heavy Bleeding (Haemorrhage): Significant blood loss during or after the procedure.
• Death: In extreme cases, the complications from FGM/C can be fatal.
• Increased Risk of Childbirth Problems and Newborn Deaths: Complications during childbirth that can affect both mother and child.
• Mental Health Problems: Long-term psychological effects, including depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

Getting Help

If you or someone you know has experienced FGM/C, help is available. The National Education Toolkit for Female Genital Mutilation/Cutting Awareness has resources in your language.

If you need help and it’s not an emergency, visit our Support Services Page. They can offer support and guidance.

Remember, you are not alone, and help is available.