ArticleMaternal health, neonatology and perinatology2026
Prevalence, determinants, and sociocultural practices of traditional uvulectomy among neonates in Gondar City, Ethiopia: a community-based mixed-methods study.
Article in Maternal health, neonatology and perinatology, 2026. The graph could read no effect estimate from its abstract, so it casts no vote on the map. Not yet cited in PubMed.
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Abstract
backgroundTraditional uvulectomy (TU) is a culturally rooted practice performed on neonates in parts of Ethiopia despite its associated health risks. Evidence on its prevalence and determinants in Gondar City remains limited. This study assessed the prevalence, practices, and determinants of TU among neonates aged < 28 days in selected communities of Gondar City, Ethiopia.
methodsA community-based cross-sectional study using quantitative and qualitative approaches was conducted in 12 kebeles of Gondar City (5 rural and 7 urban). A total of 633 neonates aged < 28 days and their mothers or caregivers were included. Quantitative data were collected using structured interviewer-administered questionnaires, and qualitative data through focus group discussions with mothers and traditional healers. TU prevalence was summarized using descriptive statistics. Binary logistic regression identified determinants, reported as crude and adjusted odds ratios (COR and AOR) with 95% confidence intervals.
resultsAmong the 633 neonates, the prevalence of traditional uvulectomy among was 84.5%. The procedure was mainly performed at home by traditional healers and was strongly influenced by family and community advice, beliefs about safety, and lower cost than formal healthcare. Multiparity was associated with lower odds of TU (AOR = 0.40; 95% CI: 0.26-0.61). Mothers who did not receive antenatal counselling had higher odds of practicing TU, while ANC counselling was protective (AOR = 0.15; 95% CI: 0.09-0.24). Home delivery increased the likelihood of TU (AOR = 5.86; 95% CI: 2.51-13.68). Qualitative findings showed that TU was viewed as a safe cultural practice in the community.
conclusionTraditional uvulectomy in neonates remains highly prevalent in Gondar City, driven by cultural norms, family influence, and access to traditional healers. Strengthening antenatal counselling, promoting institutional delivery, and implementing culturally sensitive community interventions are essential to reduce TU and improve neonatal health outcomes. CLINICAL
trial registrationNot applicable as this study did not involve a clinical trial.
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