Background
Having unprotected sex with multiple sexual partners (MSP) is the greatest risk factor for
human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and other sexually transmitted infections (STIs)
among youths. Young people with MSPs are less likely to use a condom and the greater the
risk for STIs. This study examines the associated risk factors of STIs and multiple sexual
partnerships among youths aged 15–24 years.
Data and Methods
The Malawi Demographic Health Survey 2010 data was used. Out of a sample of 2,987
males and 9,559 females aged 15–24 years, 2,026 males and 6,470 females were considered
in the study. Chi square test and logistic regression techniques were performed. Analysis
was performed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 22.
Findings
The results indicate that 1,399 (69.0%) males and 2,290 (35.4%) females reported multiple
sexual partnerships (MSP). Within the rural area, females (n = 1779) were more likely to
report MSP than males (n = 1082) and within the urban areas, a higher proportion of
females (n = 511) still reported MSP, with males (n = 316). About 78% rural females aged
20–24 years, and about 79% rural males aged 15–19 years reported MSP. The likelihood of
MSP was higher among females in the poorest households (OR = 1.31), being married (OR
= 5.71) and Catholic males (OR = 1.63), who were married (OR = 1.59). Catholic males (OR
= 1.82) in the rural areas, who were married (OR = 1.80) and rural females in the northern
region (OR = 1.26) were more likely to have MSP. The odds ratios were higher among
urban females in the poorest (OR = 3.45) households who were married (OR = 4.22).
Conclusions
Having more than one sexual partner increases the risk of STIs and sexuality education programs
should be introduced that emphasize the danger that surrounds MSP.