genital mutilation

Genital mutilation is the cutting, removal, or alteration of genital tissue, typically without medical necessity.

The term usually refers to female genital mutilation (FGM)—traditional practices involving partial or total removal of external female genitalia, performed primarily in parts of Africa, the Middle East, and Asia.

The phrase carries strong condemnation; those who practice it may prefer "female circumcision." Male circumcision is sometimes called genital mutilation by opponents of the practice.