This article by Rebecca J. Cook examines the practice of female genital mutilation; the contexts in which it has been and is currently practiced, its forms and extent, social and health consequences, and professional responses. 

Rebecca J. Cook is Faculty Chair, International Human Rights, University of Toronto; Co-Director, International Programme on Reproductive and Sexual Health Law, University of Toronto; Co-Author, Reproductive Health and Human Rights (Oxford University Press, 2003); Ethical and Legal Issues Co-Editor, International Journal of Gynecology and Obstetrics; Editorial Advisory Board Member, Human Rights Quarterly and Reproductive Health Matters.

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