Apparently the ‘minor’ form of FGM is when the clitoris is removed while the severe form of FGM is when all external genitalia are removed and the vaginal opening is stitched… only leaving a small hole for urine and menstrual fluid to pass through.

Centuries ago, some referred to the cultural practice as ‘circumcision’ to give it a possible link to male circumcision. Using this term lessens the seriousness of the physical and psychological effects it has on women and children and hides the difference between the cutting procedures.

There is no age restriction to this mutilation: FGM is performed on infants, girls and women of all ages. However, the ages might differ from country to country. In most cases, FGM happens before a girl reaches puberty. However, it’s strangely done before marriage or during a women’s first pregnancy. It is said that in Egypt, 90% of the girls are mutilated between the ages of 5 and 14. More than 75% of girls in Yemen are mutilated before they reach three weeks of age

There are more than 150 million girls and women who have undergone this brutal cultural practice… and many more will. Nobody is thinking about the health of the girls: it’s all about protecting the ‘family name’. So sacrificing your daughter means nothing compared to your family name? These are the challenges women face in countries where laws are made by men.

FGM is still practiced in several countries in Central Africa, some parts of the Middle East and Egypt. Less harsh practices take place in Indonesia, Pakistan and India. Even though we don’t often hear of any FGM practices in countries like Australia, New Zealand, Canada or the United States… but they actually do take place - but just in a much harsher manner. No FGM, is not part of any form of religious practices even there are different religious groups that incorporate it into their doctrine. There are no scriptures in the Bible or Quran that condone it.