Prevalence, Types, Complications, and Determinants of Female Genital Mutilation Among Girls in Port Sudan, Sudan: A Hospital‐Based Cross‐Sectional Study

BACKGROUND: Female genital mutilation (FGM) remains a widespread harmful traditional practice in Sudan, particularly in the eastern states, despite sustained elimination efforts. It is associated with substantial physical, psychological, and reproductive health consequences and continues to be reinforced by sociocultural and intergenerational norms. OBJECTIVE: To determine the prevalence, types, complications, and factors associated with FGM among girls in Port Sudan. METHODS: A hospital-based cross-sectional study was conducted among 768 girls aged 1 month to 16 years in Port Sudan, Red Sea State, Sudan. Participants were selected using systematic random sampling from healthcare facilities. Data were collected using structured questionnaires and standardized clinical examinations based on the World Health Organization classification of FGM. Laboratory investigations and ultrasonography were performed when clinically indicated. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 28. As a hospital-based sample, findings may not be fully generalizable to the general population. RESULTS: Overall, 220 (28.6%) participants had undergone FGM, while circumcision was planned for 217 (28.3%). Type III FGM (infibulation) predominated (85.5%), with Type I accounting for 14.5%. Grandmothers were the principal decision-makers (32.6%), and traditional midwives performed most procedures (59.5%). Higher parental education was associated with lower FGM prevalence. Clinical examination revealed discrepancies between caregiver-reported and observed FGM types. Complications included urinary tract infections, genital abnormalities, delayed wound healing, prolonged recovery, and two neonatal deaths attributed to severe hemorrhage. CONCLUSION: FGM remains common in Port Sudan, with Type III infibulation predominating and associating with substantial morbidity. Its persistence is driven by entrenched cultural norms and intergenerational influences despite emerging attitudinal changes among educated families. Comprehensive, culturally sensitive, multisectoral interventions are urgently needed to accelerate elimination.