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The voice of women subjected to female genital mutilation in the Region of Murcia (Spain)

Abstract:

Objective: To explore the perceptions of a group of women who underwent female genital mutilation onthe impact of this practice on their sexual and reproductive health. Methods: We performed a phenomenological qualitative study in a sample of 9 sub-Saharan Africawomen, whose mean age was 30 years old and who had lived in Spain for 1 to 14 years. These womenunderwent genital mutilation in their countries of origin. Data was collected using a socio-demographicsurvey and an in-depth, structured personal interview. Subsequently, we performed a thematic discourseanalysis. Results: The discourses were grouped into four categories related to participants' perceptions of femalegenital mutilation. These categories were intimate relationships, pregnancy, childbirth, and social impact. Conclusions: The practice of female genital mutilation is maintained due to social and family pressure,transmitted from generation to generation and silenced by women themselves. This practice affects theirsexual and reproductive health, as demonstrated by anorgasmia and dyspareunia. The women weresatisfied with the healthcare received during pregnancy and childbirth. Nevertheless, most of them werenot satisfied with family planning. © 2013 SESPAS.