Factors associated with female genital mutilation in Burkina Faso

Abstract

While the practice of female genital mutilation (FGM) has been abandoned in western countries, it remains common in many African countries from Senegal to Somalia, in the Middle East, in some parts of South-East Asia and even among immigrant communities in Europe, North America and Australia. Previous studies in Burkina Faso reported a high prevalence (77%) of FGM among 15 to 49 years old women and described the commitment of the government of Burkina Faso to end this practice. Little is known about the effect of this effort on the trend of FGM in the country. This study examined whether the prevalence of FGM changed overtime and identified the factors associated with this practice. Data from the 2010 multistage household survey of 15 to 49 years old Burkinabe women were analyzed. Simple frequency and logistic regression were used to meet the study objectives. Of the 3,289 women who participated in the survey, 68.1% had undergone FGM. Among those who had a daughter (n = 2258), 18.7% had a circumcised daughter. Young age [15 to 24 years (odd ratio (OR): 0.26. 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.21 to 0.31) or 25 to 34 years (OR 0.59, 95%CI 0.48 to 0.72)], ethnicity [Gourmatche ethnic group (OR: 0.48, 95%CI 0.31 to 0.73)], religion [Muslim (OR: 1.53, 95%CI 1.09 to 2.14)], and social support from community leaders (OR: 1.37, 95%CI 1.07 to 1.75) were significantly associated with the FGM among women in Burkina Faso. Although, FGM is associated with serious health risks, its prevalence remains unacceptably high in Burkina Faso. Social marketing interventions targeting community social norms, raising the community awareness about FGM, and empowering women to make informed decisions for their daughters are needed in order to end this deeply rooted tradition. Key words: Female genital mutilation, prevalence, predictors, social norms, Burkina Faso.