Abstract:
Background
Risky sexual behaviours exposes young people to the risk of infection with HIV
and other sexually transmitted infections (STIs). Sexual behaviours like
unprotected sex, early sexual debut, using alcohol or drugs before sexual
intercourse, multiple sexual partners, sexual intercourse for reward, non‐use
of condom, patronage of commercial sex workers increases the vulnerability
of this age group.
Objective
To determine risky sexual behaviour and factors affecting risky sexual
behaviour among young people in Oluku Community, Ovia North East, Local
Government, Edo State, South South, Nigeria.
Methods
The study utilized a descriptive cross‐sectional study design. Study was done
between January and June, 2013 using multi‐ stage sampling method.
Results
A total of 400 respondents participated in this study, participants engaged in behaviours like alcohol before
sex (33.0%), night parties (44.3%), smoking cigarette (16.0%) and hawking food (6.7%). Over a third, 75
(38.7%) of respondents only knew their sex partner within 1 week before having sexual relations with them,
while 33 (17%) knew them for a day, 17 (8.8%) had had sex for reward, 65 (33.5%) did not use a condom in their
last sexual encounter and 68 (35.1%) had visited commercial sex workers. Common reasons for sex were peer
pressure 96 (49.5%), sex for fun 45(23.2%) and finance 29(14.9%).
Conclusion and Recommendations
The government should regulate of activities and possible prohibition of brothels and transactional sex
workers in communities to avoid patronage by young persons. Young people should be trained on
negotiating skills, abstinence, correct and consistent use of condom and faithfulness to one partner. Parental
support in young person’s sexual and reproductive health issues via encouraging the young people to avoid
sexual risky behaviors.
Keywords:
