Female Genital Mutilation among Antenatal Attendees at St. Luke’s Hospital Anua, Uyo, Nigeria

Abstract

Prevalence of female genital mutilation/cutting (FGM/C) was studied in Anua, Uyo, Nigeria to determine its status and success of campaigns in the region. Three hundred and sixty four (364) women were interviewed and clinically examined. Eighty two (22.53%) of the women examined had cuts. Type II cutting was common (64.60%), followed by Ia (18.30%) and Ib (15.90%). Type III was the least (1.20%) observed. Female genital mutilation occurred in ten (10) tribes out of eleven (11) observed. There were significant differences (P<0.05) in prevalence among the tribes. Yoruba and Efik tribes indicated highest (75.00%) each while Ibibio/Annang tribe had the least. Secondary school girls were most affected (53.66%). Muslims were more affected (66.66%) than Christians. Cuttings occurred either between infancy and childhood or puberty and marriage. It is done by ―Circumcisers‖ considered experts in the community. Reasons for the practice include reduction of promiscuity and maintenance of virginity enshrined in tradition and religion. Involvement of nurses and other health workers as circumcisers was an attempt to medicalise the practice. FGM/C is still practiced in Nigeria. Efforts in campaigns and routine evaluation should not be abated to achieve the year 2030 eradication target.