Female genital mutilation (FGM) is any process that injures or removes part or all of the external female genital organs for non-medical reasons. FGM is a growing public health concern in the UK because of an increase in migration from countries where it is widely practised. Education on FGM for nurses is key to supporting women who have undergone the practice, as well as safeguarding girls and women who are at risk. This article discusses the history and culture of FGM as well as the long-term health complications, aiming to help nurses to support affected women professionally and sensitively.

Bethany Rose -