Strengthening protection from Female Genital Mutilation (FGM): consultation analysis

Vaginal Elongation

Vaginal elongation (also known as labia stretching) is the act of lengthening the labia minora (the inner lips of the female genitals) through manual manipulation (pulling) or physical equipment (such as weights). It is a familial cultural practice in parts of Africa and a body modification practice elsewhere. It is performed for sexual enhancement of both partners, aesthetics, symmetry and gratification. 

Question 10. Do you consider that additional protections need to be introduced in Scotland in respect of the practice of vaginal elongation? 

Yes ☐
No ☐

If yes, please outline these arguments.

Question 11. Do you have any evidence to suggest that individuals in Scotland have been subject to the practice of vaginal elongation? 

Yes ☐
No ☐

If yes, please outline these arguments.

Additional Protections 

Most respondents either did not know, or did not support the introduction of additional protections in relation to vaginal elongation. While there was some support for protections here, this was largely based on the principle that this was a harmful practice, rather than a perception that it was widespread or necessitated a specific policy response. It was suggested by several respondents that vaginal elongation might be considered as a type of FGM, or may indeed already be covered by the definition of FGM, specifically Type IV FGM. 

Evidence

Among the respondents, there was very limited evidence of individuals being subject to this practice. There were a very small number of instances in which respondents mentioned coming across anecdotal evidence about the practice.