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Definition
Definition
The FGM Centre define breast flattening/ ironing as:
'Breast flattening, also known as breast ironing, is the process during which young pubescent girls’ breasts are ironed, massaged, flattened and/or pounded down over a period of time (ranging from a few weeks to years) in order for the breasts to disappear or delay the development of the breasts entirely.
In some families, large stones, a hammer or spatula that have been heated over hot coals can be used to compress the breast tissue. Other families may opt to use an elastic belt or binder to press the breasts to prevent them from growing.
Breast flattening usually starts with the first signs of puberty, and is usually carried out by female relatives.
It should also be acknowledged that some adolescent girls and boys may choose to bind their breast using constrictive material due to gender transformation or questioning their identity, and this may also cause health problems.'
Signs and indicators
Signs and indicators
At risk of breast flattening
The National FGM Centre provides the following signs and indicators that a girl could be at risk of breast flattening/ ironing:
A girl is embarrassed about her body;
A girl is born to a woman who has undergone breast flattening;
A girl has an older sibling or cousin who has undergone breast flattening;
If there are references to breast flattening in conversation, for example, a girl may tell other children about it;
A girl may request help from a teacher or another adult if she is aware of suspects that she is at immediate risk;
A girl from an affected community is withdrawn from PSHE and/or Sex and Relationship Education as her parents wish to keep her uninformed about her rights;
One or both parents or elder family members consider breast flattening integral to their cultural identity;
The family indicate that there are strong levels of influence held by elders who are involved in bringing up female children and support breast flattening;
A girl or her family has a limited level of integration within UK community.
Breast flattening is taking place
The National FGM Centre provides the following signs and indicators that a girl may be undergoing breast flattening/ ironing:
A girl may disclose to a teacher, social worker, GP, or another medical professional;
Some girls may ask for help, perhaps talk about pain or discomfort in their chest area, but may not be explicit about the problem due to embarrassment or fear;
A girl may display reluctance to undergo medical examination;
A girl may be fearful of changing for physical activities due to scars showing or bandages being visible.
Links for further information
Links for further information
Sutton LSCP, Multi-Agency Protocol for Safeguarding Adolescents
National FGM Centre, Breast Flattening: An overview
Youtube video, What is Breast Ironing? Animation
Tri.X, Breast Ironing
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