Peer-reviewed article
Factors contributing to the perpetuation and eradication of female genital mutilation/cutting in sub-Saharan women living in Spain.
Pastor-Bravo MDM, Almansa-Martínez P, Jiménez-Ruiz I ·
Summary
Written by AI, not yet AICS's view · claude-haiku-4-5-20251001This study explored why female genital mutilation/cutting (FGM/C) continues and what helps women change their attitudes against it, based on interviews with 24 sub-Saharan women living in Spain. Researchers found that lack of knowledge, family pressure, and cultural arguments support the practice, while health awareness, negative personal experiences, knowledge of rights, and legal protections encourage women to oppose it. The findings aim to help healthcare workers develop better prevention programs by understanding both perspectives on FGM/C.
Key points
- Lack of knowledge and family pressure identified as factors perpetuating FGM/C
- Awareness of health consequences and close negative experiences motivate women to oppose the practice
- Growing awareness of rights and supportive legislation contribute to attitude change
- Breaking the taboo around FGM/C allows women to question justifications and share experiences
- Understanding arguments of both supporters and opponents helps healthcare professionals develop prevention programs
Limitations
This qualitative study with 24 women in one Spanish region cannot be generalized to all sub-Saharan populations or other geographic contexts. The study does not evaluate the effectiveness of any specific intervention to prevent FGM/C.
Abstract
Objective Female Genital Mutilation/Cutting (FGM/C) is one of the most widespread traditional practices harmful to the health of women and girls in the world. Its spread to the West highlights the need to establish preventive actions in European countries taking into account the affected population. That is why this study is aimed at finding out the elements that support the continuation of FGM/C and those that promote the change of attitudes and fight against FGM / C from the perspective of the sub-Saharan women themselves who reside in Spain. Design Qualitative exploratory research that uses the method of life stories through an open interview. Participants and setting The participants were 24 women living in the Region of Murcia (Spain) who come from sub-Saharan countries where FGM/C is commonly practised. Findings Arguments supporting FGM/C, the lack of knowledge and family pressure are identified as factors that perpetuate the practice, whereas the motivating factors for the change in attitudes that make most of the interviewees oppose FGM/C are the awareness of the consequences on health and close negative experiences, growing awareness of their rights, supportive legislation and breaking the taboo related to this practice to question justifications for FGM / C and share experiences. Key conclusion and implications for practice Being aware of the arguments of both sides, women who defend FGM/C and those who oppose it, is a valuable source of information that obstetrics, midwifery and nursing professionals can use. The study provides the core elements that any healthcare education program should incorporate to prevent female genital mutilation/circumcision.