How can children or young people at risk or affected by FGM be identified? Some children or young people may disclose that they have been victims of FGM. Others may seek medical help for the consequences of FGM including complications affecting sexual intercourse, difficulties with menstruation, urinary infections or fertility problems. Sometimes FGM may be diagnosed unexpectedly during intimate medical examinations. To identify a child at risk, consider the following:
- do other family members have FGM?
- does she have a parent from a practicing community?
- do you think the family will be aware of UK law pertaining to FGM and be able to access information on FGM and its harmful effects?
- has the young person been discussing FGM with other young people or referred to a ‘special procedure’?
Thorough risk assessment guidance can be found here.
