VIRGINITY TESTING: PERCEPTIONS OF ADOLESCENT GIRLS IN THE EASTERN CAPE, SOUTH AFRICA

Abstract

This article contributes to the literature on virginity testing by expounding the perspective of girls regarding the practice of virginity testing. The study was conducted in Mthatha, Eastern Cape Province of South Africa to explore the perceptions and attitudes of girls about the practice of Inkciyo – virginity testing. Participants were aged 16 to 19 years from St John’s College. Data were collecte through five focus group discussions with eight respondents per group. Audio data were transcribed and translated into English. Data were managed through QSR NVIVO 8. Our findings show that participants started participating in Inkciyo before the legal age of 16. Respondents cite various reasons for participating in Inkciyo including preserving their Xhosa culture, pride, and enjoying community support. Non-participation in the practice was attributed to non-performance of Inkciyo in their communities. We conclude that research is needed to investigate the acceptability of Inkciyo in other communities and to assess its impact on modifying sexual behaviour for positive sexual health outcomes, in particular reducing HIV incidence in these communities.