Early sexual debut: A multi-country, sex-stratified analysis in sub-Saharan Africa

This article examines the outcomes associated with early sexual debut analyzing Violence Against Children Surveys (VACS) data from Kenya, Malawi, Nigeria, Tanzania, and Uganda, restricting samples to males and females age 18–24 years. Early sexual debut was defined as having one’s first sexual intercourse before 15.

Differences in relationships for males and females suggest programs and policies working to reduce early sexual debut and promote healthy sexual relationships among young adolescents should thoughtfully consider framing messaging through a gendered lens.