Patterns of sexual practice, use and knowledge of contraceptive methods among adolescents in Lusaka urban

Abstract

The aim of the study was to determine patterns of sexual practice, use and knowledge of contraceptive methods among adolescents in Lusaka urban Zambia. A cross sectional study was conducted in 10 secondary schools in Lusaka urban. Stratified sampling method was used to come up with a sample size of 300 randomly selected male and female adolescents. This sample size was calculated at a level of confidence of 95%. 30 respondents were selected from each school using the systematic random sampling method. Data was collected using a structured questionnaire with both open and closed-ended questions. The results of the study showed that the majority of the adolescents 69% engaged in sex as early as at the age of 12. This was common among females 44% than males 40% who did not only engage in sex for monetary gain but also for sexual satisfaction. Contraceptive use was low among adolescents of 29%. Adolescents found reproductive health information helpful though the study did not adequacy of this information.

report Adolescents (98%) had knowledge of STI/HIV/AIDS information. Most adolescents (45%) felt comfortable to discuss issues of sexuality with peers. The majority of the adolescents (76%) did not have a youth friendly corner in the area and those who had were not satisfied with the services offered. Adolescents throughout Lusaka engage in numerous behaviour that put their reproductive health at risk. The potential adverse consequences of sexual activity are well known - STI, AIDS, unwanted pregnancies and unsafe abortions , lack of information, limited access of family planning services, unplanned sporadic nature of sexual relations and lack of awareness of the likelihood of pregnancy, STI and HIV/AIDS are factors in lack of use. There is an urgent need for expanding and improving reproductive health services. It is also important to implement interventions and strategies that would best meet the needs and have the greatest appeal to those for whom they are intended.