The roots of FGM are complex and numerous; indeed, it has not been possible to determine when or where the tradition of FGM originated.

The justifications given for the practice are multiple and reflect the ideological and historical situation of the societies in which it has developed.  Reasons cited generally relate to tradition, power inequalities and the ensuing compliance of women to the dictates of their communities

Reasons include:

• custom and tradition
• religion; in the mistaken belief that it is a religious requirement
• preservation of virginity / chastity
• social acceptance, especially for marriage
• hygiene and cleanliness
• increasing sexual pleasure for the male
• family honour
• a sense of belonging to the group and conversely the fear of social exclusion
• enhancing fertility

Many women believe that FGM is necessary to ensure acceptance by their community; they are unaware that FGM is not practised in most of the world.