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Understanding the Experiences and Needs of Migrant Women Affected by Female Genital Mutilation Using Maternity Services in Australia

Author

Listed:
  • Sabera Turkmani

    (Australian Centre for Public and Population Health Research, Faculty of Health, University of Technology Sydney, Ultimo NSW 2007, Australia)

  • Caroline S. E. Homer

    (Maternal, Child and Adolescent Health Program, Burnet Institute, Melbourne VIC 3004, Australia)

  • Angela J. Dawson

    (Australian Centre for Public and Population Health Research, Faculty of Health, University of Technology Sydney, Ultimo NSW 2007, Australia)

Abstract

Female genital mutilation (FGM) is a cultural practice defined as the partial or total removal of the external female genitalia for non-therapeutic reasons. Changing patterns of migration in Australia and other high-income countries has meant that maternity care providers and health systems are caring for more pregnant women affected by this practice. The aim of the study was to identify strategies to inform culturally safe and quality woman-centred maternity care for women affected by FGM who have migrated to Australia. An Appreciative Inquiry approach was used to engage women with FGM. We conducted 23 semi-structured interviews and three focus group discussions. There were four themes identified: (1) appreciating the best in their experiences; (2) achieving their dreams; (3) planning together; and (4) acting, modifying, improving and sustaining. Women could articulate their health and cultural needs, but they were not engaged in all aspects of their maternity care or considered active partners. Partnering and involving women in the design and delivery of their maternity care would improve quality care. A conceptual model, underpinned by women’s cultural values and physical, emotional needs, is presented as a framework to guide maternity services.

Suggested Citation

  • Sabera Turkmani & Caroline S. E. Homer & Angela J. Dawson, 2020. "Understanding the Experiences and Needs of Migrant Women Affected by Female Genital Mutilation Using Maternity Services in Australia," IJERPH, MDPI, vol. 17(5), pages 1-17, February.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jijerp:v:17:y:2020:i:5:p:1491-:d:325205
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Dineke Korfker & Ria Reis & Marlies Rijnders & Sanna Meijer-van Asperen & Lucienne Read & Maylis Sanjuan & Kathy Herschderfer & Simone Buitendijk, 2012. "The lower prevalence of female genital mutilation in the Netherlands: a nationwide study in Dutch midwifery practices," International Journal of Public Health, Springer;Swiss School of Public Health (SSPH+), vol. 57(2), pages 413-420, April.
    2. Andro, Armelle & Cambois, Emmanuelle & Lesclingand, Marie, 2014. "Long-term consequences of female genital mutilation in a European context: Self perceived health of FGM women compared to non-FGM women," Social Science & Medicine, Elsevier, vol. 106(C), pages 177-184.
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    Cited by:

    1. Juan Miguel Martínez-Galiano & Miguel Delgado-Rodríguez, 2021. "The Relegated Goal of Health Institutions: Sexual and Reproductive Health," IJERPH, MDPI, vol. 18(4), pages 1-4, February.

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