A Measurement Guide on Female Genital Mutilation for the Health Sector

Overview

Several countries with high prevalence of female genital mutilation (FGM) have been making steady progress in developing and implementing a health sector response to FGM, which is relevant to their context and informed by data. To date, the main source of FGM data in the health information system has been from population-based health surveys, which capture data on knowledge and attitudes on FGM as well as FGM prevalence. While these data are useful for strategic decision making, they are not sufficient to inform policy and decision-making at clinical and ministry of health levels.

WHO has developed resources to support the strengthening of health information systems, monitoring and evaluation and surveillance of public health problems. However, their application to FGM has not been adequately implemented or tested at scale. Several countries with high prevalence of FGM have conducted feasibility assessments and have pilot tested different measurement models. In addition, HRP has conducted regional consultations to share experiences and learning across countries during these exercises. Drawing on these findings and additional consultations with health information system experts, WHO/HRP is developing a “Measurement Guide on Female Genital Mutilation” for the health sector.