ABSTRACTRisky sexual behaviours have been on the ascendancy among the youth globally. In Ghana, the situation is compounded by the inadequate or the poor use of contraceptives among senior high students. The general objective of this study is to explore the factors influencing contraceptive use and sexual behaviour among students …
See more
ABSTRACTRisky sexual behaviours have been on the ascendancy among the youth globally. In Ghana, the situation is compounded by the inadequate or the poor use of contraceptives among senior high students. The general objective of this study is to explore the factors influencing contraceptive use and sexual behaviour among students at Twifo-Atti Morkwa district. A cross-sectional survey was used to assess students’ knowledge of the risk of sexual behaviour in the district. Simple random sampling was used to interview a sample of 250 students from a student population of 1,700 at Twifo Praso Senior High School (SHS) for the study. A structured questionnaire was used to collect data. The data was entered and analysed in SPSS. Descriptive analysis was done and the results were presented in frequency distributing tables. Chi-square test and logistic regression model were used to determine the association between the dependent and independent variables. Statistical significance was established at 5% margin of error. The study established that form of students, age, availability of service point and peer influence were factors associated with the utilisation of contraceptives use. The study also observed that students who were between the ages of 17-19 were more likely to indulge in risky sexual behaviours as compared to those below 17 years. Findings of this study reveal students in SHS2 and SHS3 were at higher odds of engaging in unsafe sexual behaviours than those in SHS1. However, having partner support lowers the odds of engaging in risky sexual behaviours. Institutions and stakeholders championing reproductive health issues should collaborate with senior high schools to organise health education programs for students on the essence of contraceptive use and safe sexual behaviour.
See less
