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): Ouldzeidoune N, Keating J, Bertrand J, Rice J.
FGM/C Type(s): All
Health area of focus: Prevalence.
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
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 was almost exclusively practiced among Arabs. The study concluded that practice of both FGM and gavage was ongoing,although the prevalence and attitude towards both appeared to vary as a function of ethnicity,wealth,education,marital status,and age. Contextually relevant intervention and enforcement strategies were needed to challenge these cultural norms and protect the rights and welfare of children in Mauritania.
Geographical coverage
Region(s):Western Africa
Country(ies):Mauritania