Practice and perceptions of female genital mutilation among Nigerian Igbo women

Genital mutilation occurred in 296 (48.5%) of 610 pregnant Nigerian Igbo women attending antenatal clinics. The incidence was especially high in association with high maternal age, high parity and low social class. Female genital mutilation (FGM) class 1 occurred in 75 (25.3%) cases while FGM class 2 occurred in 221 (74.7%). There was no cases of FGM class 3 (infibulation). The majority, 322 (52.8%) of the women were positively aware of their true genital mutilation status, but 288 (47.2%) showed negative response being either unaware of their true genital mutilation status or had become confused. Female genital mutilation was no longer practised in the locality of 337 (55.3%) of the women, was occasionally practised in that of 55 (9.0%) and was still fully practised in that of 88 (14.4%) of the respondents. Most of the women, 324 (53.1%) had no knowledge of any advantages of female genital mutilation. However, 157 (25.7%) believed that it discourages infidelity while 56 (9.2%) believed that it facilitated delivery. Similarly, 336 (55.1%) of the women were not aware of any risks of female genital mutilation, although 164 (26.9%) believed that it would cause difficult labour. Eighty (13.1%) of the respondents would advocate FGM for their daughters, out of which 34 (42.5%) cited cultural reasons. Four hundred and sixty-six women (76.4%) would not wish their daughters to be circumcised. The eradication of female genital mutilation must involve the identification of issues sustaining the practice in different localities and subsequent action supported either by logical persuasion following aggressive health education and by legislation.