ABSTRACT
In societies where female genital mutilation (FGM) prevails, one can see elements of culture that include particular beliefs, behavioural norms, customs, rituals, social hierarchies and religious, political and economic systems. Such communities share ways of living their lives and tend to think in the same way; however, culture is learnt and children learn culture from adults. FGM is supported by centuries of tradition, culture and false beliefs and is perpetuated by poverty, illiteracy, low status of women and inadequate healthcare facilities.1-3
FGM is linked to strongly held ideas about identity, sexuality, gender and power.4 Women who have undergone FGM are said to be highly regarded within practising communities, those who do not have FGM performed being viewed as unable to become mature women, unaccepted in their community and unqualified for marriage and childbearing.5
