FGM
‘Help is
out there’
There are thought to
be a large number of
girls and women living
in the borough who
have undergone varying
types of female genital
mutilation (FGM) in their
family’s native country. Yet,
the procedures are illegal
in the UK as child abuse.
Neelum Bains reports.
F
GM is any unnecessary
procedure that intentionally
alters or causes injury to the
female genital organs. Some
communities refer to it as female
genital cutting.
Health implications include kidney,
urinary and vaginal infections,sexual
dysfunction and problems getting
pregnant and giving birth.
Anyone found guilty of performing,
organising or assisting with FGM
whether in the UK or abroad can face
imprisonment for up to 14 years.
It is assumed by the relevant
authorities that a large proportion of the
girls and women affected are from the
24
around ealing
Summer 2015
*Name changed to protect her identity.