A Description of Female Genital Mutilation and Force-Feeding Practices in Mauritania: Implications for the Protection of Child Rights and Health (2013)
This study is a Descriptive research regarding All FGM/C with the following characteristics:
Author(s): Nacerdine Ouldzeidoune,Joseph Keating,Jane Bertrand ,Janet Rice
FGM/C Type(s): All
Health area of focus: None.
Objective: To establish the prevalence of female genital mutilation (FGM) and force feeding (gavage) practices among
children in Mauritania; to investigate factors related to FGM and gavage practices and attitude in Mauritania; and to explore
implications related to the protection of children’s rights and welfare.
Study Population: men and women (Data from the Mauritania 2000–2001 DHS)
Findings: The overall prevalence of FGM was 77% but varied depending on ethnicity. The majority of both female and male respondents favored the continuation of the practice (64% and 70%,respectively). Almost a quarter (23%) of women reported being force fed as a child and 32% of women and 29% of men approved the continuation of the practice. Gavage is almost exclusively practiced among Arabs.The practice of both FGM and gavage is ongoing,although the prevalence and attitude towards both appears
to vary as a function of ethnicity,wealth,education,marital status,and age.
Geographical coverage
Region(s):Western Africa
Country(ies):Mauritania