Providing information to improve body image and care-seeking behavior of women and girls living with female genital mutilation: A systematic review and meta-analysis

Abstract

Background: Female genital mutilation (FGM) has become recognized worldwide as an extreme form of violation of the human rights of girls and women. Strategies have been employed to curb the practice. Objective: To conduct a systematic review of randomized and nonrandomized studies of the effects of providing educational interventions on the body image and care-seeking behavior of girls and women living with FGM with the view to ending the practice. Search strategy: CENTRAL, MEDLINE, and other databases were searched up to August 10, 2015 without any language restrictions. Selection criteria: Studies that provided education to women and/or girls living with any type of FGM or residing in countries where FGM is predominantly practiced were included. Data collection and analysis: Two authors independently screened and collected data. We summarized dichotomous outcomes using odds ratios and evidence was assessed using the GRADE system (Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation). Results: Educational interventions resulted in fewer women recommending FGM for their daughters and also reduced the incidence of FGM cases among daughters of women who received the educational interventions. Conclusion: These findings need to be validated with large randomized trials. PROSPERO registration: 42015024637.