“Cutting for love”: genital incisions to enhance sexual desirability and commitment in KwaZulu-Natal,South Africa (2010)
This study is a Descriptive research regarding IV FGM/C with the following characteristics:
Author(s): Fiona Scorgie, Mags Beksinska,Matthew Chersich, Busi Kunene, Adriane Martin Hilber and Jennifer Smit
FGM/C Type(s): IV
Health area of focus: None.
Objective: To describe a little known practice of this kind among women in KwaZulu-Natal
Study Population: women and men in a rural and urban site in KwaZulu-Natal
Findings: The study describes a little known practice of this kind among women in KwaZulu-Natal. It involves the use of small incisions in the genital area (and often abdomen and breasts) to introduce herbal substances,described as love medicines,into the body through the incisions. In-depth interviews were carried out with 20 key informants and 20 women,and eight focus group discussions with women and men,in a rural and urban site in 2005–06. A province-wide household survey was then conducted using a multi-stage cluster sample design among 867 women aged 18–60. Forty-two per cent of the women in the household survey had heard of genital incisions; only 3% had actually used them. The main motivation was the enhancement of sexual attractiveness and long-term partner commitment. It appeared to be a very recent practice,but may be an extension of an older healing practice not involving the genitals. It was most prevalent among rural women aged 24–29 (although not significant),those with less education,and those who suspected their partners of having other partners. It was linked to the modern popularity of love medicines,which in turn illustrated the troubling state of gender relations in KwaZulu-Natal.
Geographical coverage
Region(s):Southern Africa
Country(ies):South Africa