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Female genital mutilation (FGM), also known as female genital circumcision or cutting, is the traditional, non-medical practice of altering or injuring the female reproductive organs, often through the complete or partial removal of the external genitalia.

Approximately 200 million women worldwide have undergone some form of the procedure, and 3 million more are at risk every year. 30 countries located in Africa, Asia, and the Middle East are known to practice FGM, with more severe forms highly concentrated in Djibouti, Eritrea, Ethiopia, Somalia, and Sudan.

The WHO categorizes FGM into four types:


 * Type I (Cliteridectomy) is the removal of all or part of the clitoris. This may or may not include removing the prepuce along with the clitoral glans.
 * Type II (Excision) is the removal of the clitoris along with all or part of the labia minora. This may or may not include removing all or part of the labia majora.
 * Type III (Infibulation) is the act of removing the inner or outer labia and sealing the wound, leaving only a narrow opening.
 * Type IV refers to "all other harmful procedures to the female genitalia for non-medical purposes (piercing, scraping, cauterizing of the genital area)."

FGM can have severe negative psychological effects on women, both during and after the procedure. These can include long-term symptoms of depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder, and low self-esteem. Some women report that the procedure was carried out without their consent and knowledge, and describe feelings of fear and helplessness while it was taking place. A 2018 study found that larger quantities of the hormone cortisol were secreted in women who had undergone FGM, especially those who had experienced more severe forms of the procedure and at an early age. This could mark the body's chemical response to trauma and stress, and indicate a greater risk for developing symptoms of PTSD and other trauma disorders, although there are limited studies showing a direct correlation.

FGM often takes the form of a traditional celebration conducted by an elder or community leader. The age that women undergo the procedure varies depending on the culture, although it is most commonly performed on pre-pubescent girls. Certain cultures value FGM as coming of age ritual for girls, and use it to preserve a woman's virginity and faithfulness to the husband after marriage. It is also closely connected with some traditional ideals of female beauty and hygeine FGM may or may not have religious connotations in some cases.

Legislation has been introduced in certain countries to prevent FGM. A 2016 survey of 30 countries showed 24 had policies to manage and prevent FGM, although the process to provide funding, education, and resources were often inconsistent and lacking. Some countries have seen a slight decline in FGM rates, while others show little to no change.