Reproductive Health volume 17 , Article number: 61 Cite this article. Metrics details. A Correction to this article was published on 23 July Numerous studies have identified the sociocultural determinants of this tradition, but so far, in a national context where FGM is highly practiced, virtually none have focused on people refusing to have their daughters cut. We therefore aimed to understand the sociocultural dynamics underlying the non-practice of FGM in Guinea, a country which has one of the most prevalent rates of this practice in the world.
This research explored the demographic and sociocultural profiles of Guineans who do not practice FGM, as well as their non-practice experience in a context of high FGM prevalence and social pressure. We found that participants 1 do not disclose their non-practicing status in the same way, and 2 have different experiences with social pressure.
Wanting to stop practicing FGM is not enough. The main empowering conditions allowing people to enact their decision not to have their daughters undergo FGM are: benefiting from social support positive social capital , or being financially independent from the traditional solidarity network sufficient economic capital.
This study was the first to explore the experience of people who do not practice FGM in a context of high FGM prevalence and social pressure.
The results and recommendations of this research can inform strategies for FGM abandonment and therefore contribute to improving or developing intervention strategies that promote the health and well-being of girls and women.
