Attitude and Practice of Female Genital Mutilation among Women of Reproductive Age in a Tertiary Health Facility in Benin City, Edo State

Abstract

Background: Female genital Mutilation (FGM) is a harmful traditional practice prevalent in Africa, leading to adverse physical, psychological, sexual, and reproductive health outcomes for women. Objective: This study aims to ascertain the attitude and practice of female genital mutilation (FGM), the extent of FGM practice, and the determinant factors influencing FGM among women of reproductive age attending tertiary health facilities in Benin City, Edo State. Methodology: A cross-sectional descriptive study design was used. A sample of 316 women was selected using a simple random sampling technique. A self-structured questionnaire served as the instrument for data collection. Data analysis was conducted using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS). Results: The study revealed that 54.1% of respondents have undergone FGM, while 45.9% have not. A significant portion of respondents (48.4%) believe that FGM aims to ensure premarital virginity and marital fertility. Moreover, 65.2% of respondents indicated that FGM is performed in unclean environments. Recommendation: It is recommended that healthcare workers engage in health education about the health, sexual, and psychological consequences of FGM to mitigate its practice.