Begin community dialogue on FGM / C by discussing cultural justification. Kenya FGM / C.

Abstract

The Somali ethnic community including those living in Kenya primarily practices infibulation the most severe type of female genital mutilation/ cutting (FGM/C) in which the external female genitalia are removed and the remaining tissue is stitched or glued closed with a natural substance leaving a small opening for the passage of urine and menstrual blood. This type of cut is associated with increased incidence and seriousness of obstetric and gynecological problems relative to uncut women and those with less severe forms of FGM/C. In 2004 FRONTIERS collaborated with UNICEF on a four-month diagnostic study on FGM/C practices among the Somali community in Kenya. The study undertaken in eastern Nairobi and North Eastern Province sought to better understand the communitys perception and practice of FGM/C determine approaches to encourage its abandonment and identify how the health system could be more actively engaged in managing complications and discouraging the practice. (excerpt)