A multicentre study on knowledge and attitude of nurses in northern Nigeria concerning female genital mutilation

Abstract

OBJECTIVE: To determine the knowledge and attitude of nurses in northern Nigeria concerning female genital mutilation (FGM). METHODS: Cross-sectional study in which 350 nurses working in three tertiary health institutions in northern Nigeria were assessed, using a self-administered questionnaire, with regard to their knowledge of, and attitude to, FGM. RESULTS: Two hundred and sixty-five respondents (76%) were female, 190 (54%) were married. Most (249; 71%) were Muslims, and 228 (65%), of Hausa/Fulani ethnicity. Their ages ranged from 18-60 years with a mean of 29.3 ± 8.9. Among the respondents, 318 (91%) had heard of FGM; of these 127 (40%) knew no particular type of FGM. Only 155 (49%) could identify 'Angurya' and 'Gishiri' cuts as forms of FGM. Two hundred and forty-five (77%), 231 (73%) and 200 (63%), respectively, identified haemorrhage; risk of HIV, hepatitis, and tetanus; and painful sexual intercourse as possible complications of FGM. Thirteen (4%) would perform it and also would have it done on their daughters. CONCLUSION: The nurses studied had a high level of awareness of FGM and a good general knowledge of complications associated with FGM. However, only half knew what 'Angurya' and 'Gishiri' cuts were. A few would perform FGM.