Black Women’s Perceptions Towards Infant and Child Male Circumcision

• Published in: Maternal and child health journal 2023-08, Vol.27 (8), p.1370-1381
• Main Authors: Palmer, Eurica, Marais, Lochner, Engelbrecht, Michelle
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Black people; Circumcision; Decision making; Gynecology; Infants; Maternal and Child Health; Medicine; Medicine & Public Health; Pediatrics; Perceptions; Population Economics; Public Health; Sociology
• ISSN: 1092-7875; 1573-6628
• DOI: 10.1007/s10995-023-03693-6

Objective The objective of this article was to analyse women’s perceptions of ICMC and to propose a framework for ICMC decision-making that can inform ICMC policies. Method Using qualitative interviews, this study investigated twenty-five Black women’s perceptions of ICMC decisionmaking in South Africa. Black women who had opted not to circumcise their sons, were selected through purposive and snowball sampling. Underpinned by the Social Norms Theory, their responses were analysed through in-depth interviews and a framework analysis. We conducted the study in the townships of Diepsloot and Diepkloof, Gauteng, South Africa. Results Three major themes emerged: medical mistrust, inaccurate knowledge leading to myths and misconceptions, and cultural practices related to traditional male circumcision. Building Black women’s trust in the public health system is important for ICMC decision-making. Conclusions for Practice Policies should address misinformation through platforms that Black women share. There should be an acknowledgement of the role that cultural differences play in the decision-making process. This study developed an ICMC perception framework to inform policy. Significance What is already known on this subject ? Male circumcision decision-making is complex because multiple, interrelated factors influence it. Deciding about circumcising infants and children is a challenge that many parents face. What this study adds ? This study found that social pressure from the social network, myths and misconceptions resulting from inaccurate knowledge, medical mistrust and traditional male circumcision practices influence the decisions of Black women not to circumcise their sons. The study proposes a perceptions framework to demonstrate consideration for Black women’s voices in the male circumcision discourse.