Female genital mutilation (FGM) refers to removing or damaging the external female genital organs without medical reason. It is one of the forms of honour-related violence. Often, the aim behind FGM is to protect a girl’s integrity or honour.
No religion requires female genital mutilation, but different interpretations of religion maintain the idea of FGM being necessary. The tradition is also maintained by various social and cultural reasons. The communities that practise the tradition often see it as valuable and necessary.
The most common age range for FGM is 0–15 years. FGM is practised around the world, most commonly in some countries in Africa, Asia and the Middle East. The health hazards caused by FGM vary depending on the person doing the operation, the method used, the extent of the procedure and the prevailing conditions.
FGM can cause pain, bleeding, inflections, urination difficulties, problems with scarring and other long-term adverse effects later in life, such as problems related to sexuality, pregnancy and childbirth. FGM can be very traumatic and have a negative psychological impact. The symptoms of a person who has undergone FGM can be alleviated by opening and reconstructive surgery, which are available in Finland via public health care.
Female genital mutilation and its preparation are punishable acts under the Finnish Criminal Code, and the perpetrator may be sentenced for them. FGM or the threat of it must be investigated by child welfare services and the police. Taking a girl living in Finland to be mutilated in another country is illegal. The perpetrator may also be held responsible for FGM done in the past.
Contact Nollalinja for help with experiences and threats of FGM