The Female Genital Mutilation/Cutting Experience in Somali Women: Their Wishes, Knowledge and Attitude

Abstract

Background: Female genital mutilation/cutting (FGM/C) is a common sociocultural practice in many communities in Africa. Unfortunately, what females are forced to accept because they are helpless, in order to be an individual in social life and in the country they live in, is an important health issue that is not only harmful to the human body but also against human rights. Objectives: This study aimed to investigate the wishes, knowledge and attitude of Somali women regarding FMG/C. Methods: From 16 regions of Somalia, 356 women were randomly selected. A structured and interviewer-administered questionnaire was used to collect data. Results: Except for one, all women participating in the survey were circumcised. A significant proportion of women embraced the continuation of FGM/C (52%) and 54.2% of them were satisfied with being FMG/C. Their knowledge, attitude, and practices were shaped by their religion and traditions. However, the proportion of those who wanted to stop FGM/C was 91%. Conclusions: Further efforts and research from different countries, cultures, beliefs, organizations, and individuals focusing on knowledge, awareness, legalization, and the opinions of lay and religious individuals, particularly including women's rights activists, and women with FGM/C, are needed to stop FGM/C, also known as female circumcision. © 2018 S. Karger AG, Basel.