Can Nigeria Be Empowered Through Open Conversations About Sexual Health?
The topic of sexual health is often approached with secrecy but the fact remains that sexual health is a fundamental human right and the essence of our health and well-being. It influences both individual and societal outcomes and includes the physical, emotional, mental, and social elements of sexuality.
There are different myths and misconceptions surrounding sexual health which hinder progress. For instance, talking openly about sex is met with contempt, people believe only women need contraceptives and sexually transmitted infections (STIs) only affect promiscuous individuals. But the fact remains that healthy sexual behaviours can only be promoted with communication, contraceptives help men and women make informed choices about their sexual and reproductive health, and any sexually active individual is at risk of contracting an STI regardless of their relationship status.
UNICEF launched an international household survey initiative in the 1990s called the Multiple Indicator Cluster Surveys (MICS). Nearly 330 surveys have been conducted since then in more than 115 nations. MICS aims to gather estimates of roughly 130 statistically sound and globally comparable indicators and measure the state of health, education, and child safety for men, women, and children. Using the results from the MICS 2021 survey conducted in Nigeria, we will be comparing the gender statistics on sexual health.
When surveying men and women between the ages of 15-49 years, from a sample size of 17,347 men 64.3 per cent were reported to have had sex, 38.5 per cent said that they have had more than one sexual partner and used a condom during sexual intercourse. From a sample size of 38,806 women aged 15-49, 78.7 per cent were reported to have had sex, 41.3 per cent said that they have had more than one sexual partner and used a condom during sexual intercourse.
When surveying young men and women between the ages of 15-24 years, from a sample size of 7,272 men, 27.3 per cent were reported to have had sex, 2.9 per cent said that they had sex before the age of 15, 75.2 per cent said that they have never had sex, 89 per cent said that they have had sex with a non-marital or non-cohabiting partner and 54.6 per cent said that they used a condom during sexual intercourse. From a sample size of 14,821 women, 48 per cent were reported to have had sex, 8.4 per cent said that they had sex before the age of 15, 73.2 per cent said that they have never had sex, 37.7 per cent said that they have had sex with a non-marital or non-cohabiting partner and 49.9 per cent said that they used a condom during sexual intercourse.
Also, 36.8 per cent of these young women were reported to have had sex with a man ten or more years older. This tragically mirrors the horrifying reality of child sexual abuse, in which young girls who are not yet old enough to give consent are frequently singled out and taken advantage of by adults in their communities, especially relatives. A recent UNICEF report states that one in four Nigerian girls are sexually abused before they turn 18.
These unlawful actions violate young girls' fundamental rights and rob them of their youth, leaving profound psychological and emotional scars. It is imperative to take action to prevent child abuse and empower young girls to protect themselves, including strengthening legal frameworks, guaranteeing access to child protection services, and promoting comprehensive sex education.
Based on the difference of at least 44 per cent in sample size of men and women, this is an indicator that women were more open to discussing their sexual health than men. Men should be equally encouraged and included in sexual health promotion strategies. That way, their partners are also protected by their choices.
Reducing the risk of HIV transmission requires promoting safer sexual behaviour. To stop the spread of HIV, it's crucial to consistently wear condoms during intercourse, especially when there are several partners or non-regular partners. To tackle these challenges, we need to ensure that;
- Adolescents and adults can benefit from comprehensive sex education, which debunks myths and encourages sound decision-making.
- Women have access to economic and educational possibilities that encourage them to make educated decisions regarding their sexual health.
- Sexual health services are accessible and are reasonably priced, private, and high-quality.
- Men are involved as partners in the promotion of gender equality and sexual health.
By dispelling myths, addressing statistics, and putting into practice practical interventions, Nigeria can improve results for everyone's sexual health and build a stronger, more empowered society.