Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) - known as "female circumcision", "cutting" or sunna - is a procedure where the female genitals are deliberately cut, injured or changed, but where there's no medical reason for this to be done.

Other terms used are for example gudniin, halalays, tahur, megrez and khitan. It is very painful and can seriously harm the health of women and girls. It can also cause long-term problems with sex, childbirth and mental health.

FGM is abuse, and it is illegal in the UK; even if you are a UK national or permanent UK resident and get taken abroad to have FGM, anyone found guilty of the offence faces a maximum penalty of 14 years in prison.

Religious, social or cultural reasons are sometimes given for FGM. However, FGM is child abuse, it's dangerous and a criminal offence. There are no medical reasons to carry out FGM. It doesn't enhance fertility and it doesn't make childbirth safer, it is used to control female sexuality.

What to do if you feel pressured to have FGM done to your daughter or you know someone who is at risk?

You might be feeling pressured to have FGM done to your daughter, especially if you or other people in the family have been cut. Or might know someone who is at risk of FGM. This may make you feel scared or worried but there are people who can help; you are not alone.

If you think your child or someone you know are in immediate danger of being cut or being taken abroad for this to happen, call the police (dial 999), or you speak to a GP, teacher or adult you trust. You can also call the 24 hour FGM helpline on 0800 028 3550 and remain anonymous.

If you are worried that your child or someone you know might be forced to have FGM in the future, talk to a trusted adult, such as a GP, teacher or call the FGM helpline on 0800 028 3550.

Getting advice, support or report FGM

Help is available if you've had FGM or you're worried that your child or someone you know is at risk.

• If someone is in immediate danger, contact the police immediately by dialling 999.
• For advice, support or to report it, call the free 24 hour anonymous FGM helpline on 0800 028 3550.
• If you're concerned that someone may be at risk or for information, contact the NSPCC helpline on 0800 028 3550 or fgmhelp@nspcc.org.uk.
• If you're under pressure to have FGM performed on your daughter, ask your GP or a teacher for help, or contact the NSPCC helpline on 0800 028 3550.
• If you've had FGM, you can get help from a specialist NHS gynaecologist or FGM service – ask your GP or any other healthcare professional about services in your area. Download a list of NHS FGM clinics (PDF, 430kb).

The African Well Woman’s Clinic, based in Guy’s and St Thomas’ Hospital, provides counselling, support, advice and a reversal operation. Females can self-refer by calling 020 8188 6872 or emailing Comfort.Momoh@gstt.nhs.uk.

African Advocacy Foundation works in Lambeth providing drop-in confidential counselling and advice as well as discussions through group meetings for women. Call 020 8698 4473 or email mulkaht@a-af.org.