Reported cases of female genital mutilation in Scotland represent just a tiny fraction of its true extent, a children's charity has said.

Only three cases of female genital mutilation have been reported in Scotland the Scottish Government says but the National Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children (NSPCC) believes it is much more widespread.

The charity said: "We believe the true number of victims is higher as only a tiny fraction come forward for medical help.

"Those who do are usually adults with maternity problems. In England, more than 1700 victims have been referred to specialist clinics in the past two years."

Female genital mutilation is a child initiation ritual usually carried on girls aged between four and 10 in some African, Asian and Middle Eastern communities in the UK. It is sometimes carried out on babies.

It is illegal and life-threatening and the NSPCC said it can leave young victims in agony and with long-lasting physical and psychological problems.

Carried out in secret and often without anaesthetic, it involves the partial or total removal of the external female genital organs.

Lisa Harker, NSPCC head of strategy, said: "The UK's child victims of female genital mutilation are hidden behind a wall of silence.

"Like other forms of abuse if female genital mutilation is not exposed it will continue to thrive and more children will suffer.

"Children who are at risk or victims of female genital mutilation often don't even know it is abusive and harmful because it is done at the request of their family."

The charity has launched an anonymous helpline (0800 800 5000).