Female Genital Mutilation: Impact on Knowledge, Attitude, Sexual Score Domains and Intention of Females in Northern Upper Egypt

Research Abstract

Background: Female genital mutilation/cutting is extensively done in societies where it is believed to promote marriageability. As a result, the practice of FGM/C will continue because parents believe it will provide a better future for their daughters, and some girls may even desire to be mutilated to find a husband. Aim: The aim of this study was Estimate effect of FGM on Females' knowledge, Attitude, Sexual Score Domains, and Intention in Northern Upper Egypt. Subject & Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was used. The study population consisted of 2837 females in family health centers (FHCs) in different sitting at Beni-Suef. Tool: Α Structured Interviewing Questionnaire sheet was used to collect data related females' knowledge, attitude, and intention. Female Sexual Function Index (FSDI) to assess female sexual function. Results: The prevalence of Female Genital Mutilation (FGM/C) among total participants at Beni-Suef is 71.4%. Good knowledge score (27%) was more prevalent among non-mutilated females. Unfavorable and neutral attitude score (49.3%) was more prevalent among females with FGM. that there was a significantly higher Desire domain (5.8±1.8), Arousal domain (13.7±2.9), Lubrication domain (16±3.4), Orgasm domain (11.7±2.6), Satisfaction domain (13.3±2.4), and Total score among not circumcised married participants than circumcised ones but the Pain domain didn't differ significantly between circumcised (9.7±3.3), and not circumcised (9.3±2.2). About 79.4% of females who experienced FGM/C had the intention to mutilate their daughters in the future. Conclusion: Good knowledge score was more prevalent among non-mutilated females. There was a significant relationship between FGM and knowledge, attitude, Sexual Score Domains, and intention to mutilate their daughters in the future (p-value <0.001).

Research Keywords

female genital mutilation; knowledge; attitude; intention; sexual domains