Female genital mutilation refers to procedures which partially or totally remove female genital organs, or injure the female genital organs for a cultural or non-therapeutic reason.
FGM is a breach of human rights and can be life-threatening. The procedure is often carried out by untrained practitioners and is a very traumatic experience for victims.
It occurs because of deep-rooted cultural beliefs rather than religion, and was started by men as a way to control female sexuality. Research has dated its origins back to the 5th Century BC.
FGM is a criminal offence under the Female Genital Mutilation Act 2003, which also includes the new offence of taking a child out of the UK for the purpose of FGM.
South Wales Police continue to work with partner agencies in the health, social services and education professions, so that we may effectively prevent and deal with any presented cases of FGM.
If you believe that you or somebody you know is a victim of Female Genital Mutilation, you can report it by calling 101.
In an emergency, always dial 999.