Who is at risk

There are countries where FGM is more common than others. Signs that a girl or young woman is possibly at risk of FGM might include:

• one or both parents are from countries where FGM is carried out
• her mother has had FGM

Don't assume that all women who have experienced FGM or all men from affected communities will support the practice. Different ethnic groups carry out FGM for different reasons, and at different ages. It's very important to find out the reasons why FGM is carried out in her community / ethnic group, and the age at which it's done.