Determinants of support for female genital cutting among ever-married women in Egypt

This study examines the effect of exposure to communication messages on support for female genital cutting (FGC) in Egypt. Data from the 2005 Egypt Demographic and Health Survey are analysed using logistic regression (n=19,106; ever-married women aged 15-49). The analysis reveals that high levels of exposure to FGC-related media messages are essential in reducing support for FGC. Women exposed to two or more FGC media messages are 1.6 times more likely than unexposed women to support discontinuing FGC. Moreover, women's belief that men want the practice discontinued, and their belief that FGC can cause fatal complications, are both positively associated with women's support for discontinuing FGC. By contrast, women's belief that FGC is an important part of religion, and their belief that FGC prevents adultery, are negatively associated with women's support for discontinuing FGC. Almost identical factors affect women's intention to circumcise their daughters. High exposure to FGC-related messages, and women's belief that men want the practice discontinued, are negatively associated with the outcome. Women's belief that FGC is an important part of religion, and their belief that FGC prevents adultery, are positively associated with it. Women's belief that a husband prefers a circumcised wife is not associated with women's intention to circumcise their daughters after controlling for all other variables in the model. Given that high level of exposure to FGC-related messages is key in reducing support for FGC, communication campaigns should be continued and intensified. Campaigns should also aim to change men's perception and support for the practice.