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Female genital mutilation: knowledge, attitude and practice among nurses.
Sunday O Onuh1, Gabriel O Igberase, Joaness O U Umeora
1Baptist Medical Centre, Sapele, Delta State, Nigeria.
Journal of the National Medical Association
|April 1, 2006
Summary
Female genital mutilation (FGM) is prevalent among nurses in Benin, Nigeria, with nearly half having undergone the procedure. Culturally sensitive education is crucial to address FGM
Area of Science:
- Medical Ethics
- Public Health
- Sociology
Background:
- Female genital mutilation (FGM) persists globally, particularly in Africa, despite international efforts to eradicate it.
- This study focuses on FGM prevalence and perceptions in Benin, Nigeria, a region with high FGM rates and where the practice is legally prohibited.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the knowledge, attitudes, and practices of nurses regarding FGM in Benin City, Nigeria.
- To understand nurses' perceptions of FGM, including its perceived harmlessness and cultural significance.
Main Methods:
- A cross-sectional survey was conducted among 193 nurses in a study hospital in Benin.
- 182 nurses (94.3%) completed questionnaires detailing their demographics, FGM knowledge, attitudes, and personal/professional practices.
Main Results:
- 44% of nurses surveyed had undergone FGM. Most identified some harmful effects, but 24.2% believed certain forms were harmless.
- 12.6% of nurses routinely performed FGM, often citing cultural reasons. Nearly 15% of those who had previously performed FGM intended to do so in the future.
- Nurses with over 11 years of experience were more likely to have performed FGM.
Conclusions:
- Nurses in Benin largely perceive FGM as a cultural practice, with significant personal experience and a minority recommending it.
- Effective FGM eradication requires culturally sensitive education for healthcare providers and the public, highlighting health risks and human rights violations.