Sociodemographic Determinants of Female Genital Mutilation Practice in Ekiti State: Perspectives of Women and Health Workers

Female genital mutilation (FGM) is a harmful traditional practice with recognised gynaecological, obstetric, and psychological consequences, and while its prevalence is declining nationally, community-level determinants and health worker attitudes require context-specific investigation. This study explores the sociodemographic determinants of FGM practice in Ekiti State, South West Nigeria, from the perspectives of women and health workers. A mixed-methods study enrolled 150 women of reproductive age and 30 health workers through quantitative questionnaires and qualitative in-depth interviews. Questions assessed FGM history, attitude towards continuation, knowledge of health consequences, and perceived drivers of the practice. FGM prevalence among respondents was 34 percent, primarily Type I and Type II. Older age, residence in rural communities, and low educational attainment were significant determinants of FGM history. Ninety-two percent of FGM-positive women reported the procedure was performed by traditional practitioners. Sixty-seven percent of women expressed opposition to continuing FGM in their daughters. Health workers unanimously condemned FGM medically, yet 23 percent acknowledged community pressure as a barrier to active dissuasion of families. The study identifies generational attitudinal shift and health worker hesitancy as key dynamics in Ekiti State FGM context. Recommendations include community-centred behaviour change communication, health worker empowerment to counsel against FGM, and enforcement of Nigeria's Violence Against Persons Prohibition Act at the state level. Keywords: female genital mutilation, FGM, Ekiti State, determinants, reproductive health