What is FGM?
Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) refers to the partial or total removal of external female genitalia for non-medical reasons.
Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) refers to the partial or total removal of external female genitalia for non-medical reasons.
1., Ensure Immediate Safety If the person is at risk of undergoing FGM (especially a child), or is in danger: Call the helpline for children in danger 📞 96 123 11 11 (24/7 emergency helpline) Or call the police: 📞 112 If FGM has already occurred and medical help is needed: Go to the nearest hospital or health center (Centro de Saúde)
2. Seek Medical Attention: FGM survivors can access gynecological care and mental health support through the Portuguese National Health Service (SNS) Contact your local Centro de Saúde or go to a hospital (f.e. Hospital de Santa Maria, Maternidade Alfredo da Costa or Hospital Fernando da Fonseca)
3. Access Psychological Support: Ask a doctor or social worker to refer you to a psychologist or trauma counselor You can also be referred through:
APAV (116 006)
Centro de Saúde (via SNS)
NGOs like APF or JRS
4. Report the Situation (Optional but Encouraged) FGM is illegal in Portugal and considered a form of gender-based violence and child abuse. Report the case to:
CNPDPCJ (child protection authority)
APAV (for adult victims or survivors)
CIG (for legal and protective support)
Reporting is confidential, and the survivor will not be punished
5. Connect with Support Organizations: Reach out to trusted NGOs for: Case management, Legal referrals, Emotional support or Assistance navigating Portuguese institutions
📌 Helpful contacts: APAV: Legal and emotional support (📞 116 006) CIG: Gender-based violence response (📞 800 202 148)
Public institutions
National Emergency Number: Call: 112 [available 24/7]
APAV – Portuguese Association for Victim Support Provides legal guidance, emotional support, and protection to victims of crime, including FGM. 📍 Rua José Estêvão 135 A, Lisboa 📞 Victim Support Helpline: 116 006 (free, confidential, 24/7) 🌐 Website: www.apav.pt
CIG – Commission for Citizenship and Gender Equality National authority promoting gender equality and protecting individuals from gender-based violence, including FGM. 📍 Address: Rua Almeida Brandão, 7, 1200-602 Lisboa 📞 Helpline: 800 202 148 (free) 📧 Email: cig@cig.gov.pt 🌐 Website: www.cig.gov.pt
DGS – Direção-Geral da Saúde | Division of Sexual, Reproductive, Child and Youth Health Coordinates national health policy related to sexual and reproductive health, including prevention of FGM. 📍 Address: Alameda D. Afonso Henriques, 45, 1049-005 Lisboa 📞 Phone: +351 21 843 05 00 📧 Email: secretariado.dsr@dgs.pt 🌐 Website: www.dgs.pt
CNPDPCJ – National Commission for the Protection of Children and Young People at Risk Coordinates the national child protection system; handles cases involving minors. 📍 Address: Praça de Londres, 2, 2º, 1049-056 Lisboa 📞 Emergency Helpline "Crianças em Perigo": +351 96 123 11 11 📧 Email: CNPDPCJ.presidencia@cnpdpcj.pt 🌐 Website: www.cnpdpcj.gov.pt
APF – Associação para o Planeamento da Família Offers sexual and reproductive health services, education, and counseling; experienced in FGM awareness and prevention. 📍 Address: Avenida João Paulo II – Lote 565 – R/C – 1950-154 Lisboa 📞 Phone: +351 21 385 39 93 📧 Email: apfsede@apf.pt 🌐 Website: www.apf.pt
Associação Mulheres sem Fronteiras A grassroots organization supporting migrant women, offering community-based assistance, awareness-raising, and advocacy against practices like FGM. 📍 Address: Casa das Associações, Parque Infantil do Alvito, Estrada do Alvito, Monsanto, Lisboa 📞 Phone: +351 960 398 578 📧 Email: info.mulheres.sem.fronteiras@gmail.com 🌐 Facebook Page: facebook.com/mulheressemfronteiras
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