Female Genital Mutilation: Females’ Related Knowledge

Research Abstract

Background: According to a representative from the United Nations Population Fund in Cairo, Egypt’s rate is so high that it accounts for one-fourth of all cases worldwide. Female genital cutting roots are unknown, but it is supposed to predate all religions, including Judaism, Christianity, and Islam, and to have been performed within all of these religions. Aim: It was conducted to assess the level of total knowledge of females toward the practice of female genital mutilation (FGM). Subject and 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. Α Structured Interviewing Questionnaire sheet was used to collect data. Results: The most of studied participants (71.2%) their age was 15 - 30 years old. The majority of studied participants (90.2%) were highly educated. More than half (57.5%) of studied participants were single, round two-thirds (65.4%) of studied participants were students. Only 25.7% of females had good knowledge regarding FGM/C, while 40.5% and 33.8% had poor and fair levels of knowl- edge, 71.3% of females mentioned that the source of their information about FGM/C was their personal experience. Poor knowledge score (37.1%) was more prevalent among females with circumcision (p-value < 0.001). Conclusion: Knowledge score regarding FGM was poor for the most of participants. The main source of females’ information was their personal experience. Poor knowledge score was more prevalent among mutilated females. Recommendations: Development of an educational programs and brochures for mothers about FGM is required to increase their awareness.

Research Keywords

Female Genital Mutilation; Knowledge