MOTHERS` PERSPECTIVES OF FEMALE GENITAL MUTILATION

MOTHERS` PERSPECTIVES OF FEMALE GENITAL MUTILATION

ABSTRACT

The goal of this study was to learn about mothers’ perceptions on female genital mutilation (FGM) in the Maasai culture of Kenya. The study’s goal is to use the research findings to create teaching initiatives aimed at reducing female genital mutilation. The research was conducted in collaboration with a local hamlet in South-West Kenya, west of Nairobi, Kenya’s capital city. The qualitative method was employed to conduct this investigation. Data was gathered through interviews with four mothers aged 20 to 35 who had young daughters. The interviews were conducted between December 2010 and February 2011. The collected data was examined using content analysis. The findings of this study demonstrated that the mothers interviewed are knowledgeable about the impacts of female genital mutilation in general and the risks associated with its practice, despite their fear of losing their culture. They were also aware of the long- and short-term implications on their daughters and the unborn child, which may result in irreversible disabilities and death. The moms interviewed were aware of the warning signals of FGM infection and how to assess whether medical therapy was necessary rather than relying solely on natural healing. The majority of mothers reported to using natural, contemporary, and other therapeutic approaches. They accepted other recommended alternatives to female genital mutilation, such as girl child education, because their daughters had more knowledge and facts to demonstrate why female genital mutilation was damaging to them. Furthermore, the study findings suggested that the participants were willing to collaborate closely with health experts who were more knowledgeable about FGM and its implications. They are also aware that FGM is illegal in Kenya, and if found, they face prosecution. Further investigation is recommended, with a focus on the father’s opinion. The findings could also help the government and policymakers raise awareness about female genital mutilation, particularly among moms who have differing perspectives about the practice.

Chapter one

INTRODUCTION

According to the Journal of Human Rights (2007), female genital mutilation (FGM) is the practice of partially or completely removing the external female genitalia for cultural or religious beliefs rather than medical grounds.

Geographical location, socioeconomic status, and ethnic background. It is not always clear who will perform which type of female genital mutilation (Journal of Human Rights 2007, 6: 392-413). Female genital mutilation dates back three centuries, but it has undergone cultural transformations.