This briefing highlights what breast ironing is, the consequence (legally, physically and emotionally), the law in the UK, key research on the practice and the reasons why families may practice it. MP Jake Berry used this for a speech in parliament about the issue.
Document Type: Research/Reports
National FGM Centre: an evaluation of the second phase
The evaluation of the second phase (1 April 2016 – 31 March 2017) focused on assessing the impact of the pilot on services and members of potentially-affected communities, while concentrating more closely on the model of delegated authority and on the support given to families above and below statutory social care intervention thresholds. This evaluation draws out lessons from the NFGMC’s work for best practice in the children’s services response to FGM, and for collaboration between services and communities.
Understanding Breast “Ironing”: A study of the methods, motivations and outcomes of Breast Flattening in Cameroon
This report presents the findings of research examining the practice of breast ironing or breast flattening in Cameroon. Breast ironing or flattening is a practice common in Cameroon and throughout West Africa whereby an object is used to massage, pound, or press the breasts flat. This report presents a summary of findings from original fieldwork and a review of unpublished academic reports and one quantitative study conducted in all ten regions of Cameroon by GIZ in 2005
The Mayor’s Office for Policing and Crime Female Genital Mutilation Early Intervention Model: An Evaluation
The MOPAC female genital mutilation (FGM) early intervention model looks at ways to prevent new cases of FGM among women and girls, while supporting those affected by FGM.
Roots, realities and responsibilities: Lessons learnt in tackling witchcraft accusations against children.
This study explores the scale and scope of witchcraft accusations across the world, the belief systems that support them, the impact on the children themselves and how to effective challenge this type of abuse.
Nigeria: FGM and the Law
A document by 28 to Many that explores the law around FGM in Nigeria, breaking down international and regional treaties signed and ratified by the government.
Female Genital Mutilation in Iraqi-Kurdistan: an Empirical Study
The present investigation was begun in 2007. Its aim is to overcome the shortage of reliable data on female genital mutilation in Kurdish northern Iraq and to collect information on both the motives underlying the procedure and the circumstance in which it takes place. Such information is essential in two respects: on the one hand, it can form the basis for further educational work in the field and, on the other, it may help us to counteract the still widespread ignorance about the plight of girls and women in Kurdish northern Iraq. As regards the latter aspect, two further points need emphasizing: firstly, that FGM is not exclusively an African problem and, secondly, that the practice violates universal human rights and is a crime against the physical integrity and sexual autonomy of women.
A systematic review of doctors’ experiences and needs to support the care of women with female genital mutilation
Female genital mutilation (FGM) involves partial or complete removal of the external female genitalia or other injury for non-therapeutic reasons. Little is known about the knowledge and skills of doctors who care for affected women and their practice in relation to FGM. This reviews aims to examine the FGM experiences and educational needs of doctors.
Evidence to inform education, training and supportive work environments for midwives involved in the care of women with female genital mutilation: a review of global experience.
The aim of this study was to identify how midwives in low and middle income countries (LMIC) and high income countries (HIC) care for women with female genital mutilation (FGM), their perceived challenges and what professional development and workplace strategies might better support midwives to provide appropriate quality care.
The role of men in abandonment of female genital mutilation: a systematic review
Men in their roles as fathers, husbands, community and religious leaders may play a pivotal part in the continuation of female genital mutilation (FGM). However, the research on their views of FGM and their potential role in its abandonment are not well described. This review undertook a systematic review of all publications between 2004 and 2014 that explored men’s attitudes, beliefs, and behaviours in regards to FGM, as well as their ideas about FGM prevention and abandonment.