Female genital mutilation among mothers and daughters in Harar, eastern Ethiopia

Abstract

ObjectiveTo assess the practice of female genital mutilation (FGM) among mothers and daughters, and to investigate sociodemographic factors influencing the practice of FGM in Harar, Ethiopia. MethodsA community-based cross-sectional study was conducted among women aged 15 years or older who had at least one living daughter younger than 12 years via the Harar Health and Demographic Surveillance System 2013. Data were collected through face-to-face interviews. The practice of FGM was compared between mothers and their daughters. Whether the daughter had undergone FGM was included as an outcome variable in bivariate and multivariate analyses. ResultsAmong 842 mothers, 669 (79.5%) reported that they had undergone FGM themselves, and 160 (19.0%) that their daughter had undergone FGM. Traditional practitioners were said to be the major performers of FGM by 151 (94.4%) mothers. Mothers whose daughter was mutilated mentioned social acceptance (144 [90.0%] women) and better marriage prospects (96 [60.0%]) as the major benefits. Genital mutilation of daughters was significantly associated with maternal age, education to grade 1–4, and FGM experience. Amhara ethnic origin was significantly associated with a reduced likelihood of FGM among daughters. ConclusionOver one generation, the incidence of FGM has reduced. Increasing advocacy against FGM and enforcement of law should be emphasized.