Prevalence and Contributing Factors of Female Genital Cutting in Debaytilatgin District, Northwest Ethiopia

Yaregal Ejigu Gebeyaw Tiruneh

doi:10.4172/2090-7214.1000167

Abstract

It is estimated that more than 130 million girls and women alive today have undergone female genital mutilation. Female genital cutting predominately occurs in 28 African and the Middle East countries. The prevalence in Ethiopia is 74.3% and in Amhara region it accounts 68.5%. This study was aimed to assess the prevalence and associated factors of female genital mutilation among women in the reproductive age group. The study used both quantitative and qualitative methods. The sample size for the survey was 730 and three focus group discussions were held among women in reproductive age group with daughters of under five years old. It was conducted by using a semi-structured questionnaire and unstructured discussion guide. Logistic regression was used to see statistical associations. The prevalence of female genital mutilation among daughter less than five years was 62.7%. Educational level, age and circumcision status of women, availability of health education and not enforcement of legislations regarding Female genital mutilation were independent predictors of female genital mutilation. The Regional health bureau, Zonal health department, District health office and health extension workers should work hard in addressing health education and creating awareness in the community regarding the devastating consequences and danger of female genital mutilation.

Highlights

Female genital mutilation (FGM), or female circumcision, includes all procedures involving partial or total removal of the external female genitalia or other injury to the female genital organs whether for cultural or other non-therapeutic reasons [1].Four main types of FGM exist: Type one, Clitoridectomy involves the removal of the clitoral hood with or without removal of all or part of the clitoris
It was found that 62.7% of the daughters who were under five year had undergone female genital cutting
This might be due to female genital cutting practices is more accepted in amhara region as good practice than in tigray region

Summary

Introduction

Female genital mutilation (FGM), or female circumcision, includes all procedures involving partial or total removal of the external female genitalia or other injury to the female genital organs whether for cultural or other non-therapeutic reasons [1]. Four main types of FGM exist: Type one, Clitoridectomy involves the removal of the clitoral hood with or without removal of all or part of the clitoris. Excision varies from the removal of the clitoris and/or clitoral prepuce to the removal of part or the entire clitoris together with part or all of the labia minora (the inner vaginal lips). Infibulation involves the removal of the clitoris, the labia minora, and part of the labia majora after which the edges of the wound are sutured to leave a small opening (vaginal orifice). Long-term consequences include urinary incontinence, painful sexual intercourse, sexual dysfunction, difficulties with childbirth, scaring and infertility [3]

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Discussion

Conclusion