Early infant male circumcision: Potential for changing adverse gender norms associated with traditional male circumcision among circumcising communities in Kenya

Introduction: Traditional male circumcision (TMC) inculcates masculine-dominance norms in young men. Early infant male circumcision (EIMC) and medical male circumcision (MMC) can potentially minimise these adverse gender norms. We explored the perceptions about EIMC and MMC among communities practising TMC in Kenya. Method: We conducted focus group discussions with men and women and councils of elders, and key informant interviews with traditional circumcisers. Data were analysed using NVivo 10. Results: Most participants described MC as a rite of passage into adulthood, with the preferred age for MC to occur at 10 to 15 years old. Interestingly, awareness of the advantages of EIMC, especially among younger men and women, was high. Participants acknowledged that TMC reinforces hegemonic masculinity that undermines gender equality. Except among traditional circumcisers and some members of councils of elders, MMC and female providers were largely deemed acceptable. Conclusion: EIMC and MMC are slowly gaining acceptance, providing important tools to challenge adverse gender norms associated with TMC.