Risky Sexual Behaviors for HIV Infection among Female Private College Students in Nekemte Town, Western Ethiopia

Abstract

Background: HIV/AIDS risky behavior remains a critical health concern for young women for multiple biological and socio-economic reasons. Hence, the objective of the study was to assess the level of risky sexual behaviors and associated factors among female students in private colleges in Nekemte town, western Ethiopia. Methods: A cross-sectional study was carried out among female private college students in Nekemte town between April and May, 2014. A total of 422 female students in private colleges were randomly selected for the study. A self-administered questionnaire was used for data collection. The collected data were cleaned and analyzed using SPSS version 16. Bivariate and multivariable analyses were done to identify predictors of risky sexual behaviors. Results: One hundred fifty six (38.4%) of the non-married (N=406) respondents had practiced sexual intercourse. Of these, 115(73.7%) were sexually active in the last 12 months. Of the total respondents who were sexually active in the last 12 months including the married one (N=131), 38(29%) reported that they had sexual intercourse with two or more partners. Among non-married females who were sexually active in the last 12 months (N=115), only 34(29.6%) reported to have used condom at their last sexual intercourse. Urban residence (AOR=2.4, 95% CI =1.3, 4.5), income deficit (AOR= 2.8, 95 % CI=1.5, 4.0), Income source (AOR=2.5, 95% CI=2.0, 9.0) and pornographic film viewing (AOR=10.7, 95 % CI=5.1, 22.5) were significantly associated with premarital sex. Level of study (AOR =2.0, 95% CI=1.3, 3.2), marital status AOR=2.8, 95% CI 1.8, 6.6), Living arrangement (AOR= 3.295% CI=1.3, 4.5, and pornographic viewing (AOR=2.0, 95% CI=1.1, 4.3 were significantly associated with multiple sexual partners. Similarly, condom use in the last sexual intercourse among nonmarried female students was significantly associated with level of study (AOR= 0.2, 95 % CI= 0 .1-0.9), Knowledge of HIV prevention by consistent use of condoms (AOR=2.9, 95%CI 1.0-8.0), pornographic viewing AOR= 2.7, 95 % CI =1.0, 7.6) and alcohol drinking (AOR=5.2, 95 % CI 3.2, 7.3). Conclusion: This study indicated that large proportions of students were engaged in risky sexual behaviors. Hence, Encouraging continuation of virginity as a cultural norm among those who have not experienced sexual intercourse and awareness creation.