Types of FGM
Type I – Clitoridectomy
Partial or total removal of the clitoris (a small, sensitive and erectile part of the female genitals) and/or the prepuce (the clitoral hood or fold of skin surrounding the clitoris).
Type II – Excision
Partial or total removal of the clitoris and the inner labia, with or without excision of the outer labia (the labia are the ‘lips’ that surround the vagina).
Type III – Infibulation
Narrowing of the vaginal opening by creating a covering seal. The seal is formed by cutting and repositioning the inner or outer labia, with or without removal of the clitoris.
Type IV – Other
All other harmful procedures to the female genitalia for non-medical purposes. Examples include pricking, piercing, incising, scraping and cauterising (burning) the genital area.
The Desert Flower Foundation has a number of excellent infographics depicting the types, instruments used and prevalence of types of FGM. Read this link.
It is also important to note that there are subtypes of each of the 4 types of FGM.
Female Genital Mutilation (FGM): Health, Law, and Socio-Cultural Sensitivity
Female Genital Mutilation (FGM): Health, Law, and Socio-Cultural Sensitivity
Reach your personal and professional goals
Unlock access to hundreds of expert online courses and degrees from top universities and educators to gain accredited qualifications and professional CV-building certificates.
Join over 18 million learners to launch, switch or build upon your career, all at your own pace, across a wide range of topic areas.
