@article{ref1,
title="Perceptions of female genital mutilation/cutting (FGM/C) among asylum seekers in New York City",
journal="Journal of immigrant and minority health",
year="2020",
author="Martell, Sarah and Schoenholz, Reagan and Chen, Victoria H. and Jun, Irene and Bach, Sonya Chemouni and Ades, Veronica",
volume="ePub",
number="ePub",
pages="ePub-ePub",
abstract="Female Genital Mutilation/Cutting (FGM/C) affects millions of girls and women globally each year despite widespread criminalization of the practice. Eradication efforts have focused on the health risks associated with FGM/C however, it is important to understand the sociocultural context in which this practice exists. We conducted a cross-sectional study using retrospective chart review and structured interviews with women recruited through the Bellevue/New York University Program for Survivors of Torture. Of the 43 participants enrolled in the study, 88.4% initially indicated there is no benefit of undergoing FGM/C but when prompted, agreed that social acceptance (16.3%), religious approval (11.6%), and better marriage prospects (9.3%) are possible benefits. More sexual pleasure for the women (46.5%), avoiding pain (30.2%), and fewer medical problems (16.3%) were stated as benefits of not undergoing FGM/C. Overall, 40 (93%) participants believed the practice should be discontinued. This study highlights that there may be a perception of social benefit of undergoing FGM/C. Although most participants believed the practice should be discontinued, the complex social milieu within which this practice exists must be addressed.<p /> <p>Language: en</p>",
language="en",
issn="1557-1912",
doi="10.1007/s10903-020-01103-5",
url="http://dx.doi.org/10.1007/s10903-020-01103-5"
}