Empathy in Midwifery Care for Women with FGMC

A Collaborative Approach to Midwifery Care for Women with Female Genital Mutilation/Cutting (FGMC): Insights from Nigeria

In a recently published study, researchers explored the personal and cultural beliefs of midwives and nurses in Nigeria who provide care for women impacted by Female Genital Mutilation/Cutting (FGMC). The study, accessible in a PDF from Research Square, offers critical insights into the unique challenges faced by healthcare providers. The research emphasizes the importance of culturally aware and empathetic midwifery practices in caring for women with FGMC, highlighting the nuanced understanding that midwives need to navigate personal, cultural, and ethical dimensions while providing sensitive, effective care.

FGMC remains a complex issue intertwined with cultural beliefs, traditions, and gender norms, significantly impacting women's health in regions where the practice persists. The study’s qualitative approach illuminates these issues from the perspectives of Nigerian midwives and nurses who encounter women affected by FGMC in their daily work. Through in-depth interviews and case studies, the Rukaiyya Muhammad, Kim Watts, and Elsa Montgomery captured the voices of healthcare providers, underscoring the complexities of delivering compassionate care amidst culturally rooted practices.

According to the study, many Nigerian healthcare providers face a challenging duality in their work: respecting cultural beliefs while adhering to medical ethics that prioritize patient welfare. FGMC is deeply embedded in the cultural fabric of many Nigerian communities, often seen as a rite of passage or a symbol of purity. However, the medical community is acutely aware of the health risks associated with FGMC, including infection, childbirth complications, and long-term psychological effects.

Healthcare providers, therefore, navigate a complex path, balancing cultural sensitivity with a commitment to the health and dignity of women. This study emphasizes that midwives and nurses are not only caregivers but also cultural mediators, bridging the gap between traditional practices and evidence-based healthcare. “The perspectives of midwives and nurses are essential in promoting culturally sensitive interventions that foster understanding and respect,” the study notes, advocating for collaborative approaches in midwifery education and practice.

The research highlights midwives' roles in advocating for women affected by FGMC and educating communities on the health implications of the practice. Midwives often serve as trusted figures within their communities, positioning them uniquely to promote change through dialogue and education. They encourage informed choices and alternative rites of passage while supporting affected women through their reproductive health journeys.

One of the significant challenges, as reported by the study, lies in the providers’ own personal and cultural beliefs, which may align with or oppose FGMC. This dichotomy can influence how they approach and support patients. By raising awareness within the healthcare community about these inherent biases, the study suggests that midwives and nurses can be better prepared to handle FGMC cases with empathy and understanding.

The authors of the study advocate for enhancing midwifery education to equip healthcare providers with the skills and sensitivity needed to care for women affected by FGMC. This approach involves incorporating cultural competence into medical training, focusing on empathy-driven practices, and creating a supportive environment for open discussion about FGMC within the healthcare community. Collaborative initiatives can play a significant role in addressing FGMC’s health impacts without alienating communities.
Furthermore, the study emphasizes the need for ongoing support for midwives, acknowledging that they may experience emotional and ethical challenges when caring for women affected by FGMC. Training programs that integrate culturally respectful practices with evidence-based care are critical in ensuring that midwives are not only knowledgeable but also empowered advocates for women’s health.

By emphasizing collaborative care, this study provides a roadmap for healthcare providers worldwide to address FGMC in ways that respect cultural contexts while advocating for women’s health and rights. The insights gained from Nigerian midwives and nurses serve as a foundation for creating empathetic, culturally informed care models that can be adapted to other regions where FGMC is prevalent.

Building a supportive network that allows midwives to share experiences, seek guidance, and participate in continued education will ensure they remain equipped to address FGMC's complexities.

This study, accessible on Research Square, highlights a path toward a compassionate approach to midwifery care that honors both cultural traditions and the rights of women to safe, respectful healthcare.

Source: Research Square