Sexual Activity and Prevalence of Multiple Sexual Relationships among Female Students at a University Campus in Zimbabwe

Abstract

This study sought to determine the extent of sexual activity and prevalence of multiple concurrent sexual relationships among female students at a university campus in Zimbabwe. A qualitative research design was used in this study. Three focus group discussions were conducted to collect qualitative data from 30 participants. A purposive sample was used and participation was voluntary in this study. Data collected were analysed thematically. The study found that there was a great deal of sexual activity and high prevalence of multiple concurrent sexual relationships among female students in this study. The study found among others the following as some factors leading to multiple sexual relationships: poverty; financial gains (get money to buy food clothes and pay fees); boyfriend staying far away (distance); and partners provide transport to town and places of entertainment. Despite the threat of HIV infection in the multiple concurrent sexual partnerships female students still participate in these partnerships.