Determinants of Condom Use among Undergraduates: Factors Influencing Condom Use and Demographic Correlates in Rivers State University

Abstract

Background: Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) remain a major public health concern among young adults in Nigeria, with inconsistent condom use contributing significantly to transmission of HIV, gonorrhoea, chlamydia, and other infections. University undergraduates, experiencing increased sexual autonomy and peer influence, represent a high-risk group despite generally high awareness of preventive measures.

Objective: This study examined the determinants of condom use, key influencing factors, and demographic correlates (gender, age, and level of study) among undergraduate students at Rivers State University, Port Harcourt, Nigeria.

Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional survey design was employed. Using Yamane’s formula, a sample of 395 students was drawn from five randomly selected departments across five faculties (total population 5,062) via multi-stage simple random sampling. Data were collected through a structured electronic questionnaire (Google Forms) distributed via departmental platforms. The instrument comprised four sections: demographics, awareness of condoms/STIs, attitudes toward condom use, and influencing factors. Descriptive statistics (frequencies, percentages, means) and a 4-point Likert scale (criterion mean 2.50) were used for analysis, with Pearson’s product-moment correlation applied to test relationships between demographics and awareness/attitude.

Results: Respondents were predominantly female (58.0%), aged 21–25 years (44.6%), and in 300–400 levels (60.0%). Awareness of condoms as an effective STI prevention method was high and independent of gender and age. Key influencing factors included affordability/accessibility (mean 2.59) and availability of awareness programmes (2.52), but significant barriers were embarrassment in purchasing/carrying condoms (2.62), reduced pleasure (2.54), inconvenience/spontaneity disruption (2.52), and discomfort discussing use with providers (2.47). Grand mean of 2.54 indicated overall significance of these factors. Level of study showed a positive, statistically significant correlation with favourable attitudes (p ≤ 0.01), particularly negotiation confidence and support for open discussion.

Conclusion: While awareness is widespread, psychosocial and situational barriers hinder consistent condom use. Level of study emerged as a key positive correlate. Targeted campus interventions—peer education, free condom distribution, curriculum integration, and youth-friendly services—are recommended to bridge the knowledge-practice gap and enhance STI prevention among undergraduates.