Scholarly record

EXAMINING THE SEXUAL BEHAVIOR OF ADOLESCENTS WITH AN EMPHASIS ON THE USE OF CONTRACEPTION

S. Kelcikova, L. Mazuchova, M. Filickova

Abstract

In adolescence, reproductive capacity and even physical growth gradually reaches. In terms of health, it is important to pay attention to the sexual behavior of adolescents, their health education within the meaning of minimizing the possible risks and incidence of sexually transmitted diseases (STD). Design: The study was designed as a descriptive cross-sectional study. {{Materials and methods: }} The aim of this study was to determine the level of sexual behavior of adolescents in relation to use of contraception. A specially designed questionnaire was used for students aged 15 - 21 years. The questionnaire was distributed to the sample of students (n=400). The average age was 17.75 (В± 1.28). The response rate was 95% (n=381). Data were analyzed by means of descriptive statistics and the Chi-square (?2) test (p< .05). Results: From the analysis of the results, we identified that over more than half of adolescents 61.35% (2.49 В±1.91) already had sexual intercourse. In the 16th - 17th years, the majority of respondents 58.01% (3.43 В± 1.92) has more than two sexual partners. We found out differences in using contraceptive methods for various reasons (39.37% vs 7.63%). Analysis points to the fact that only 24.41% (2.68 В±1.26) know that use of barrier contraception prevents STD transmission. We identified a statistically significant influence of gender and age on sexual behavior of adolescents (p< .05). {{Conclusion}}: We identified that adolescents are beginning to live an active sex life earlier (16th-17th year) as in the past. Identified sexual behavior can be considered as a risk. Evidence of significant differences in terms of gender and age could be important argument for more effective education of the adolescents by midwives, and for strengthening compliance for safe sexual behavior.

Publication details

Back to publication list