The latest Demographic and Health Survey on young people’s sexual experiences, particularly their first sexual encounter, has revealed concerning trends regarding the age at which women engage in sexual activity compared to men.
The study, which involved 154 respondents aged 20-49 from the Ashanti and Northern regions, highlights a prevalence of sexual violence and coercion among young girls and women, leading to their early sexual initiation.
Stakeholders at the dissemination of the report expressed concerns about the youth’s limited understanding of sexual reproductive health issues.
The findings underscore the importance of effective teaching methods to address these gaps in knowledge and empower young people to make informed decisions about their sexual health.
According to the study, one in five respondents had their first sexual experience with someone they were not in a relationship with. Additionally, all respondents in the Ashanti Region and all male respondents in the Northern Region reported having sex before marriage.
Dr. Akosua Owusu-Ansah, a senior lecturer at the University of Education Winneba, expressed concern about the coercion experienced by many female respondents during their first sexual encounter. However, the research did not specify the influencers behind this coercion.
Dr. Owusu-Ansah highlighted that high levels of sexual violence and coercion are prevalent in Ghana, particularly among young girls and women.
She emphasized the need for policymakers to address these issues and prioritize the reproductive sexual rights of adolescents based on the data available from the survey.
Deputy Government Statistician Faustina Frempong-Ainguah urged policymakers to utilize the data to inform decisions regarding reproductive health among adolescents.
She emphasized the importance of educating young people about the consequences of early sexual activity and empowering them to make informed choices about their health and well-being.
The survey findings underscore the urgency of addressing sexual reproductive health issues among adolescents in Ghana through targeted policies and interventions.