Iniciação sexual e as relações de gênero: um estudo transversal na cidade de Maceió, Alagoas

Abstract

This research aims to study sexual behavior in early sex life of men and women of the city of Maceió, Alagoas. It is proposed to examine gender differences present in early sex life of this population. Descriptive quantitative approach in which participants were men and women 20-49 years sample that considers a sampling error of 5%, which were selected from the 50 districts of the city. The final sample of 800 people. The instruments for data collection were two structured forms. Data collection occurred in the year 2012 until January 2013. Data were statistically analyzed and the results were: the average age of first intercourse was 16.04 years (SD = 3.14), among men, the mean was 15.57 (SD = 2.35) and between women was 17.19 (SD = 3,56). 70.4% sexually active with a (one) partner (a) Fixed (a) being a dating relationship reported by 60.1% of (the) respondents (as) and 40.5% used a contraceptive method , and a condom the most used method (74.2%). Among women, 83.4% reported experiencing pressure from their partner and 73.5% of men suffered pressure from friends. Motivation is different for women, 50.5% were motivated by love of men and 40.5% were motivated by curiosity. The gender variable showed statistical significance when associated with age, (the) partner (a) and the use of contraception at first intercourse. The religion of creation was associated with the choice of a partner only for the group of women. The prior information on methods was significantly associated with age and method use at first intercourse. The occurrence of pregnancy in this relationship was associated with sex and (the) partner (a) in the first relationship. Gender differences are evident in the sexual behavior of women and men and this is mainly due to the socialization process that people experience throughout their lives. The society becomes more accepting of sexual initiation out of wedlock, although still respond to traditional gender norms in which the bonding is important for sexual initiation. For men, the assertion of masculinity are important in sexual relations, although some men are valuing the affective involvement-loving. There is a need to broaden the discussion about sexual-affective trajectories due to the importance that these relationships have in dictating the sexual and reproductive behavior of (the) youth in prevention perspective. The awareness of men and women is important and not just female autonomy in the relationship, and that the greatest challenge lies in understanding that sexual behavior is a result of the construction of gender identities different for men and for woman. Educational strategies should be offered continuously and from the involvement of the health sector and other areas.