Traditional male circumcision as a remedy to sexually transmitted infections amongst youths in the Limpopo Province of South Africa

Abstract

Scientific evidence has shown that male circumcision reduces the risk of sexually related infections by providing partial protection in heterosexual men from contacting infections by at least sixty percent. Traditional male circumcision has been practiced by many African cultures over the years. However, the practice presents a plethora of advantages and disadvantages which need to be closely looked into. This study investigates factors underlying uptake of traditional male circumcision as a sexual infections preventative strategy among the youths in Limpopo province. A systematic exploratory study was adopted to undertake this survey. The study population was twelve (12) male students at the University of Limpopo. Findings indicate that even though male circumcision has been shown to reduce men’s risk of becoming infected through heterosexual sex, few youths are aware of this prevention information. Furthermore, some of the initiation schools where the service is offered are illegal which results in the transmission of STIs and deaths of the initiates. Also, it has been discovered that some youths are naive to partake the practice due to lack of information. Hence, traditional leaders must play a leading role in disseminating information on the importance of male circumcision.