Prevalence and correlates of female genital mutilation among young women in selected sub-Saharan African countries: A pooled analysis

Abstract

A deeper understanding of the factors associated with female genital mutilation remains important in the fight against this practice,
particularly in developing countries. This study focused on young women (15-35 years) and pooled analysis using DHS data (2015-
2019) for selected sub-Saharan African countries was done. The weighted study sample was 26289 and the data were analysed using
univariate, bivariate and multivariate regression analysis. The results are based on information at the time of the survey. The overall
prevalence of FGM among young women from the selected countries was 71.5%. Sierra Leone had the highest prevalence (83.7%),
followed by Tanzania (80.8%), Ethiopia (73.0%), and Gambia (72.4%). The prevalence in Senegal and Guinea were both below
60%. We found that age, level of education, age at first marriage, parity, employment status, media exposure, and type of place of
residence were statistically associated with FGM. This calls for targeted interventions focusing on increasing awareness, education,
and empowerment for young women with low socio-economic status.