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నైరూప్య

Prevalence and Contributing Factors of Female Genital Cutting in Debaytilatgin District, Northwest Ethiopia

Yaregal Ejigu, Gebeyaw Tiruneh, Muleta Mekonnen and Getiye Dejenu Kibret

It is estimated that more than 130 million girls and women alive today have undergone female genital mutilation. Female genital cutting predominately occurs in 28 African and the Middle East countries. The prevalence in Ethiopia is 74.3% and in Amhara region it accounts 68.5%. This study was aimed to assess the prevalence and associated factors of female genital mutilation among women in the reproductive age group. The study used both quantitative and qualitative methods. The sample size for the survey was 730 and three focus group discussions were held among women in reproductive age group with daughters of under five years old. It was conducted by using a semi-structured questionnaire and unstructured discussion guide. Logistic regression was used to see statistical associations. The prevalence of female genital mutilation among daughter less than five years was 62.7%.

Educational level, age and circumcision status of women, availability of health education and not enforcement of legislations regarding Female genital mutilation were independent predictors of female genital mutilation.

The Regional health bureau, Zonal health department, District health office and health extension workers should work hard in addressing health education and creating awareness in the community regarding the devastating consequences and danger of female genital mutilation.