Factors associated with cross generational sex among university female students in Uganda

Abstract

Cross generational sex (CGS) is an important factor in the increase of young girls’ exposure to risk factors at individual level among students. Cross generational sex (young girls having sex with men who are 10 years older) were girls are involved in age at first sex with multiple partners has led to an increase of young girls being exposed to risk factors and the spread of HIV. The increase of risk factors at student level through cross generational sex, has been scientifically investigated and quantified through this study and intervention mechanisms recommended. Binary logistic regression analysis was used because of the nature of the dependent variable, which was dichotomous and proved the factors associated with CGS. Bivariate cross tabulations established the relationships between the dependent variables and independent variables. Pearson’s Chi-square statistically determined the nature of relationships and association of two variables was considered significant if the p- value is <0.05. This implied any association above 0.05 was considered insignificant. CGS in ten (10) Universities in Uganda showed that, there is a significant relationship between forced first sexual intercourse and engagement in CGS and those forced into sexual intercourse significantly engaged in CGS. Female students who engage in CGS were likely to have been involved in risky sexual activity below age 19years, and bivariate and multivariate analysis revealed the same. Most females had their first sexual intercourse between the ages of 19-24 years. The unemployed, tricked females were more likely to engage in CGS in comparison to employed and not tricked. Factors associated with CGS include: age at first sexual intercourse, forced sexual intercourse, trickery and unemployment in Uganda. Intervention at student level through institutional, private and religious initiatives can reduce risk sexual networks associated with CGS.