Correlates of first intercourse among women in Jamaica.

ABSTRACT

PIP: This study examines retrospective reports of factors anticipated to impact first intercourse among 897 women selected randomly in Jamaica. Three groups of factors were associated with early vs. late initiation of intercourse. A significant association was noted between family structure in childhood and age of first intercourse. Women growing up in one-parent families were more likely to engage in intercourse before the age of 16. The age of menarche was also significantly associated with age of intercourse. The characteristics of the first sexual partner and the characteristics of the relationship were significantly associated with the age of intercourse. On the other hand, there are four sets of variables assessing current demographic characteristics, current relationship status, and factors such as religiosity and knowledge on sexually transmitted diseases (STDs). It was observed that early initiators of intercourse were more likely to report lower socioeconomic status, less STD knowledge, and a greater number of pregnancies. This study identifies some of the circumstances of first intercourse, which highlight the need to develop health and educational intervention programs that offer more options to young adolescents who may consider early childbearing to stabilize relationships.