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Reproductive health in Malta
Matthew Mifsud1, George G Buttigieg, Charles Savona-Ventura
1Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Mater Dei University Hospital, Malta.
Summary
Secularization in Malta correlates with evolving sexual behaviors, including increased teenage births and a rise in out-of-wedlock rates, despite lower sexually transmitted infection rates compared to Europe.
Area of Science:
- Sociology
- Public Health
- Demography
Background:
- The Maltese population traditionally adheres to Roman Catholic beliefs, but secularization is increasingly evident.
- This shift necessitates an understanding of its impact on societal norms, particularly regarding sexual attitudes and behaviors.
Purpose of the Study:
- To quantify the consequences of more liberal sexual attitudes in the Maltese community.
- To analyze reproductive and sexual health indicators in Malta relative to other European countries.
Main Methods:
- Review of reproductive and sexual health indicators from Malta and selected European nations.
- Analysis of a questionnaire study involving 200 Maltese and 2200 European individuals on sexual history.
Main Results:
- Higher proportion of teenage births in Malta, with a significant increase in out-of-wedlock maternity rates.
- Sexually transmitted infection rates in Malta are comparable to or lower than other European countries.
- Maltese individuals reported a higher mean age at first intercourse and fewer sexual partners, particularly women over 35, despite earlier sexual education and reliance on unreliable contraception.
Conclusions:
- Sexual behavior in Malta has demonstrably changed.
- While sexual education is provided, its effectiveness in addressing current practices requires reinforcement.
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