Gender Differences in the Timing of First Intercourse: Data from 14 Countries

Assessment of regional variations in young peoples sexual behavior using data from the most recent nationally representative surveys of reproductive behavior in 14 countries throughout the world found that never married young people are considerably less likely to be currently sexually active than to be sexually experienced.

Abstract

Data from the most recent nationally representative surveys of reproductive behavior in 14 countries throughout the world were used to assess regional variations in young peoples sexual behavior. Analyses focus on 15-19 year olds but also use data from 20-24 year olds to provide a more complete picture of gender differences in behavior during adolescence. In most countries roughly one-third or more of teenage women have had intercourse; in four countries (Ghana Mali Jamaica and Great Britain) about 3 in 5 are sexually experienced. Between about one-half and three-quarters of adolescent males in seven countries have ever had intercourse but the proportion is one-third or less in Ghana Zimbabwe the Philippines and Thailand. In most countries sexual intercourse during the teenage years occurs predominantly outside marriage among men but largely within marriage among women. Never married young people are considerably less likely to be currently sexually active than to be sexually experienced. For example in Ghana 49% of never-married adolescent women have had intercourse but only 23% have done so within the past month. In most of these countries a high proportion of adolescents is potentially at risk for a range of poor reproductive health outcomes. Program planners must find ways to help sexually active adolescents consistently use effective means of protection against both pregnancy and sexually transmitted diseases. (authors)