A Description of Female Genital Mutilation and Force-Feeding Practices in Mauritania: Implications for the Protection of Child Rights and Health
Level 4 - case-series / case-control
Cross-sectional survey analysis (by design analogy, Oxford CEBM level 4)
OpenAlex W2056861561 · doi:10.1371/journal.pone.0060594
What was done
Authors analyzed cross-sectional data from the Mauritania 2000–2001 Demographic and Health Survey (DHS). Both men and women were asked about their attitudes toward the continuation of female genital mutilation (FGM) and force-feeding (gavage); only women were asked if they had experienced these practices. Chi-square tests and binary logistic regression were used to examine socio-demographic factors associated with attitudes and practices.
What was found
The prevalence of FGM among women was 77%, with variation across ethnicities. Continuation of FGM was favored by 64% of women and 70% of men. Force-feeding as a child was reported by 23% of women, and continuation of gavage was supported by 32% of women and 29% of men. Gavage was practiced almost exclusively among Arabs. Specific regression effect sizes and confidence intervals were not reported in the abstract.
Why it matters
This study provides national baseline figures on the prevalence and cultural support for FGM and gavage in Mauritania, identifying demographic differences to inform targeted child protection and health interventions.
Limits
The abstract omits the sample size (n), confidence intervals, and specific regression estimates. The findings are based on cross-sectional, retrospective self-reported survey data from 2000–2001, which may be subject to recall bias and may not reflect current prevalence.
Cited by
- supports In certain cultures, such as in Mauritania, women before marriage undergo intentional fattening practices by restricting movement and increasing caloric intake to enhance attractiveness.