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Abstract #155929

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Heather Maurer, BA, MA, same, The Institute for Professional and Executive Education, 8004 Trevor Place, Vienna, VA 22182, 703 732-1700, embracethegoddess@yahoo.com

Healthcare providers and parents are becoming aware that male infant circumcision negatively impacts the well-being of the child, breastfeeding and bonding. We also are seeing an increase in MRSA (Methicillin Resistant Staphylococcus Resistant Aureaus) in circumcised infants. The World Health Organization declared that infant circumcision is unnecessary, and human rights organizations state it violates the United Nations Declaration of Human Rights of the Child and physicians' codes of ethics. The goal of Malama I Na Keiki, a Hawai'i-based group of healthcare workers and parents, is to end circumcision through culturally appropriate education of mothers, healthcare professionals, hospitals, medical students, and communities. It draws strength from Hawaiian traditions. An indigenous mother said, “ENOUGH IS ENOUGH!!” Our people would never cut off the third piko, it is a deep connection for us. We know in our hearts that if we were educated our first son would never have gone through that pain. Being educated has allowed us to overcome our guilt and start our healing process with this second son of ours.”

Coalition members train community educators, gather the latest research, coordinate with medical professionals and hospitals, and teach seminars and prenatal classes. We support the development of policies that discourage automatic circumcision of newborns. Sensitivity and forgiveness are components of this movement. Feedback from hospitals and birthing mothers is that circumcisions are decreasing, and several newly trained physicians are beginning to discourage circumcision of decline to perform it. This project shows how native traditions improve the well-being of the ohana (family).

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