Gender issues in the prevention and control of STIs and @entity645 / XXXX : lessons from Awka and Agulu, Anambra State, Nigeria.

@entity1 @entity791 @entity645 @entity458
The study examined perceptions, practices and norms underlying sexuality and gender relations that constrain the prevention and control of STIs and @entity645 / @entity791 . It was carried out among the Igbo of Awka and Agulu in Anambra State of Nigeria. Both quantitative and qualitative methods were used for data collection. Findings indicate that cultural practices that encourage the establishment of @entity458 by @entity1 persist in the study communities. Some married @entity1 who are not able to achieve pregnancy with their husbands get involved in such networks to have @entity1 . Some parents who do not have male @entity1 encourage their unmarried daughters to have @entity1 out of wedlock so as to perpetuate the lineage. Inequality in gender relations and fear of repercussions constrain @entity1 from negotiating safe sex. Sexuality education is, therefore, necessary to improve the knowledge base, perceptions and sexual behaviours of the study communities. @entity1 should be empowered to make informed decisions about sexuality and childbearing. Male responsibility in reproductive health should also be encouraged.
