Exploring Adolescent Sexual Health Practices and Outcomes in Umguza and Mberengwa Districts in Zimbabwe

Abstract

Background: Worldwide, adolescents have had limited access to reproductive health services due to several factors. The nature of communities and their organisations play a significant role in shaping adolescent sexual behaviours and practices. This study sought to explore the extent of the influence of community environmental factors in moulding adolescent sexual behaviours in Mberengwa and Umguza districts. Methods: A quantitative cross-sectional survey was conducted on 370 and 360 systematically selected adolescents in Mberengwa and Umguza districts, respectively, using a pre-tested researcher-administered questionnaire. The collected data was captured in Excel and imported to STATA Version 13 Standard Edition for analysis. Different statistical methods (both descriptive and inferential) were utilised to interrogate collected data and inferences made. Results: Most respondents were female and were between 13-17 years. Most of the respondents were literate. Umguza district had a significantly higher prevalence of pregnancies, Sexually Transmitted Infections, and a higher number of adolescents engaging in sexual activities. Predictors of Sexually Transmitted Infections and pregnancies were the sex of the respondent, tribe, sexual encounters, age, and religion. Conclusion: Adolescents are at risk of contracting Sexually Transmitted Infections and impregnation as they engage in risky sexual behaviours, as evidenced by the findings. The two districts have a significantly higher prevalence of having sex than the national average.