Assessing Female Genital Mutilation Practice in South-Western Nigeria

Abstract

Background: With always dwindling resources in mitigating against various negative effects of female genital mutilation among girls/women in Nigeria, identifying factors that encourage the practice is highly imperative. Aim: This research assesses the Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) practice and knowledge practice among states in the South-West of Nigeria. Methods: Data were collected across states in the South-West using a structured questionnaire. The hierarchical sampling technique is used to select a locality in each of the 18 senatorial districts across six states in the region. The convenience sampling technique is then used to select respondents. Results: It was found that the age, resident, wealth status, and educational background of respondents are significant factors in the circumcision status of respondents. The odds of being circumcised is highest among respondents from Ekiti state, followed by those from Osun state while it is lowest in Ogun state. The highest percentage of respondents who had their daughters’ circumcised used the help of traditional practitioners while removal of the clitoris is the most prevalent form of mutilations among residents in states in the South-West.