Towards the Abandonment of Female Genital Cutting in Communities in Abia State: Initiatives in Nigeria

Abstract

 Background: Despite World Health Organization (WHO), the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), and UNICEF call for abolition of female genital cutting or mutilation (FGC or FGM), studies have shown that over 130 million women have practiced FGM worldwide. In developing countries including Nigeria, 3 million girls are at risk each year. The question is, do community members regard FGC as a harmful practice as to encourage its abandonment? The aim of this paper is to institute planned and coordinated activities to discourage FGM practice in communities. Materials and Methods: A round table discussion with 24 respondents between the ages of 21-64 years was conducted. Discussions which were free centered on reasons for performing FGM, its benefits, risk factors, better practices to influence its abandonment as well as reasons for continuing FGM practice. In-depth interview using both open and closed-ended questions was used to collect information. Data were analysed qualitatively and qualitatively. Result: About 17(70.8%) of respondents perceived decrease in sexual promiscuouty as the main benefit of FGM. Majority of the respondents had poor knowledge of health problems of FGC. Only 9(37.5%) of the respondents identified Caesarean section as a health problem of FGM. Hardly could the respondents mention two health problems of FGM including blood transmitted diseases like HIV and AIDS. Economic benefits and chastity were the two motivating factors for continuing FGM practice. Conclusion: Realizing the poor knowledge of health problems of FGM in communities, and the fact that government has no meaningful activity to enlighten individuals on the risks of FGM practice, health education as the best alternative to promote the eradication of FGM practice is necessary.