Factors associated with age of first sex among women screened for an observational contraceptive vaginal ring study in Kisumu, Kenya, 2014.

Abstract

Sex at an early age can have later life negative health outcomes. Insights on early sexual activity may help in the development of future health-promotion products and interventions related to pregnancy and sexually transmitted infections (STIs) prevention. Among Kenyan women participating in a contraceptive vaginal ring study, we determined: (1) the proportion with first sex at ≤15 years (early sex) and (2) factors associated with early sex. Baseline data collection and testing for pregnancy, STIs, and HIV were undertaken. A log-binomial or a modified Poisson regression was used to estimate univariable prevalence ratios and multivariable adjusted prevalence ratios (aPRs). Among 332 women aged 18-34 years, the median age of first sex was 16 years, with 40.1% experiencing early sex. Overall, 29.8% reported an older first sex partner (≥5 years); 83.9% indicated lack of readiness or intentions at first sex; and 56.2% received money, gifts, or favors as part of first sex. Early sex was more prevalent among inherited widows (a Luo cultural practice, aPR 1.49), gift recipients (aPR 1.38), women with a forced/unwanted sex history (aPR 1.42), or those with a partner of unknown or positive HIV status in the past 3 months (aPR 1.45). Sex before or at the age 15 may be associated with higher sexual risk behaviors. Complex power and gender relations may additionally influence exposure to sexual risk in our research setting.