Assessment of Female Genital Cutting Practice and Its Drivers among Women of Reproductive Age in a Rural Community in South-West Nigeria

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Background: Worldwide, Female Genital Mutilation/Cutting (FGM/C) has been practiced for generations. This study examined the practice of FGM/C and identified factors influencing its continuity in Osu, a rural community in Osun State, Nigeria. Methods: This study employed a mixed method cross-sectional design. The quantitative aspect involved interview of 294 women using a semi-structured questionnaire while the qualitative aspect entailed 16 in-depth interviews using an in-depth interview guide to seek information from selected spouses of the respondent, women leaders, religious leaders and health workers. The study took place between January and June 2023. The quantitative data were subjected to descriptive and inferential statistics while the qualitative data were analyzed using thematic content analysis. Results: Ninety four percent of the women had poor knowledge of the health risks associated with FGM/C practice. About three-third (76.5%) had undergone FGM/C while 77.2% intend to continue FGM/C practice on their daughters. The predictors of continuing FGM/C practice include being married (AOR 2.03, 95% CI 1.12 - 3.65, p = 0.019), none/primary education (AOR 10.02, 95% CI 2.88 - 34.88, p = 0.0001), lower income (AOR 3.17, 95% CI 1.54 - 6.55, p = 0.002) and having undergone FGM/C (AOR 14.65, 95% CI 5.31 - 40.37, p = 0.0001). In-depth interviews revealed that the factors sustaining FGM/C in the community include curbing promiscuity, religious rites, community customs and traditions. Conclusion: Socio-cultural factors continue to sustain FGM/C practice in the community. It is necessary to target married women and other community leaders in the campaign against FGM/C practice.

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