An exploration of attitudes towards female genital mutilation (FGM) in men and women accessing FGM services in two London hospitals

Aims: It is estimated that 10,000 girls under 15 in the UK are affected by female genital mutilation (FGM) in the UK. This pilot cross-sectional study addressed the gap in research regarding attitudes towards the continuation... [ view full abstract ]

Aims: It is estimated that 10,000 girls under 15 in the UK are affected by female genital mutilation (FGM) in the UK. This pilot cross-sectional study addressed the gap in research regarding attitudes towards the continuation of FGM: an important child protection and legal issue. We aimed to measure the proportion of adults who report they believe that FGM should stop.

Methods: We asked English-speaking women and their accompanying partners accessing specialist FGM services at two London hospitals to participate in the study. Those consenting were given an information sheet, consent form and questionnaire to complete in a private room in the clinic. Questionnaires were adapted with permission from the United Nations Children’s Fund and the United States Agency for International Development household surveys.

Results: We recruited 54 participants (51 women, three men) from a pool of 90. 96% (49/51) of the women reported they had undergone FGM, with half aged between five and ten at the time. 33% of participants didn't know their type of FGM, and 31% had been ‘cut, with some flesh removed’. 89% (48/54) of participants reported they thought FGM should stop (95% CI: 0.81 to 0.97), and none stated that FGM should continue.

Conclusion: The results demonstrate general opposition to FGM by participants. Non-attendees may represent different viewpoints; bias is therefore likely. This study establishes the feasibility of a UK-wide study regarding attitudes towards FGM. This could be achieved with minor amendments to this study design, as  participants had difficulties understanding some questions. Safeguarding children in the context of FGM is everybody’s business, and outcomes of future research will help shape government understanding and policies. This will improve the FGM prevention programme by understanding the extent of the barriers to change, in addition to providing proper healthcare, education and support for those affected.