Abstract
Female Genital Mutilation/Cutting (FGM/C) affects millions of girls and women globally each year despite widespread criminalization of the practice. Eradication efforts have focused on the health risks associated with FGM/C however, it is important to understand the sociocultural context in which this practice exists. We conducted a cross-sectional study using retrospective chart review and structured interviews with women recruited through the Bellevue/New York University Program for Survivors of Torture. Of the 43 participants enrolled in the study, 88.4% initially indicated there is no benefit of undergoing FGM/C but when prompted, agreed that social acceptance (16.3%), religious approval (11.6%), and better marriage prospects (9.3%) are possible benefits. More sexual pleasure for the women (46.5%), avoiding pain (30.2%), and fewer medical problems (16.3%) were stated as benefits of not undergoing FGM/C. Overall, 40 (93%) participants believed the practice should be discontinued. This study highlights that there may be a perception of social benefit of undergoing FGM/C. Although most participants believed the practice should be discontinued, the complex social milieu within which this practice exists must be addressed.
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Acknowledgements
The authors would like to thank EMPOWER Lab members Julia Leschi and Gabriel Herrera for their work on data collection for this project.
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Martell, S., Schoenholz, R., Chen, V.H. et al. Perceptions of Female Genital Mutilation/Cutting (FGM/C) among Asylum Seekers in New York City. J Immigrant Minority Health 23, 1241–1248 (2021). https://doi.org/10.1007/s10903-020-01103-5
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s10903-020-01103-5