Female genital mutilation (FGM) is a procedure where the female genitals are deliberately cut, injured or changed, without any medical reason.
It's also known as "female circumcision" or "cutting", and by other terms such as sunna, gudniin, halalays, tahur, megrez and khitan, among others.
FGM is illegal in the UK and is classed as child abuse.
It is very painful, can seriously harm the health of women and girls and cause long-term problems with sex, childbirth and mental health.
If you've had FGM or you're worried that someone may be at risk, help and support is available from NHS Choices (external link).
Advice and support