Predictors of sexual and reproductive behaviors among adolescents in a secondary school for girls in Enugu Metropolis, Nigeria
Abstract
Objectives
The adolescent period is characterized by increased sexual curiosity and interest in the opposite sex, including opposite-sex relationships. Hence, adolescents are more likely to experience sexual and reproductive health (SRH) issues. This study assessed the sexual and reproductive behavior of adolescents, along with its associated factors, at a secondary school in Enugu metropolis.
Methods
A cross-sectional descriptive survey was employed involving 324 female students at Queens School, Enugu, Nigeria, using the simple random sampling technique. The instrument for data collection was a researcher-developed questionnaire with a reliability coefficient of 0.762.
Results
The mean age and standard deviation (SD) of the respondents was 13.55 ± 1.69. Only 28 (8.6%) of the adolescents were sexually active. Half (n = 14, 50%) of the sexually active adolescents had had their first sexual experience before 9 years of age. Class (P = 0.003), living characteristics (P = 0.019), and receiving of pocket money (P = 0.002) were significantly associated with SRH behavior. Respondents who received pocket money significantly predicted risky sexual and reproductive behavior [OR = 2.714, P < 0.05, 95%CI (1.002–7.353)].
Conclusions
Although proportionately low, risky SRH behavior is prevalent among the respondents. Healthcare providers should collaborate with other stakeholders to provide more information and resources that can be channeled to improve adolescent SRH behavior.
© 2026 Chidinma E. Israel, Adaeze C. Nwosa, published by Shanxi Medical Periodical Press
This work is licensed under the Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 License.