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Breaking the Cycle Addressing the Determinants of Female Genital Mutilation in Sudan

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by

Vishnu
in

Introduction

Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) remains a grave health and human rights concern in many African countries, particularly in Sudan where the practice affects 88% of women aged 15–49. A recent study published in the Clinical Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology sheds light on the key factors associated with FGM among daughters of reproductive-aged women.
Visit https://www.obstetricgynecoljournal.com for more groundbreaking research in this field.

Uncovering the Realities of FGM at ACTH

The cross-sectional study conducted at Academic Charity Teaching Hospital (ACTH) examined 200 reproductive-aged women with daughters above 5 years. Key findings include:

  • 56.5% of mothers had at least one circumcised daughter
  • Significant factors influencing FGM practices include:
    • Mothers’ circumcision status (AOR = 14.03)
    • Attitude towards FGM (AOR = 48.53)
    • Lack of knowledge about ill effects (AOR = 4.29)

These findings highlight the entrenched cultural and societal factors that perpetuate the cycle of FGM in Sudan.

Socio-Demographic Influences

Educational Status

Women with a primary education or higher were less likely to circumcise their daughters. This supports global advocacy for female education as a tool against harmful traditions.

Residence

Living in rural areas increased the likelihood of having circumcised daughters (89%) compared to urban areas (51%).
The World Health Organization (WHO) reports that FGM prevalence is often higher in communities with strong traditional practices and lower access to health education.

Religion

FGM was more prevalent among Muslim families (98%) than Christian families (20%), aligning with prior findings from countries like Egypt and Burkina Faso.

Public Health Impact

FGM causes severe short-term complications like bleeding and infection, as well as long-term consequences including:

  • Sexual dysfunction
  • Obstetric complications
  • Psychological trauma (PTSD and depression)

The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) emphasizes that FGM has no health benefits and should be eliminated through healthcare policy, education, and legal reform.

Further Reading and Resources

Recommendations from the Study

The authors recommend a multi sectoral approach:

  • Health education targeted at mothers in rural areas
  • Community awareness programs with involvement from religious leaders
  • Criminalizing FGM practices through national legislation
  • Empowering women through education and socio economic support

Call-to-Action

FGM is more than a medical issueit is a social injustice.
Explore more studies at https://www.obstetricgynecoljournal.com and join the conversation by sharing your thoughts in the comments below!

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