Sexual Behavior and Sexual Risks Among Spanish University Students: a Descriptive Study of Gender and Sexual Orientation

University years are characterized by new experiences and relationships, some of which can prove to be risky. This is of particular concern when considering sexual behavior. The main objective of this study was to examine sexual behavior and some of its negative consequences in a sample of Spanish university students according to gender and sexual orientation. The data were collected from 1451 students of both sexes (29 % men, 71 % women) between 18 and 26 years old in a mid-size university in Spain. Eighty-seven percent of the participants had engaged in sexual relations with vaginal penetration and 20.4 % had engaged in sexual relations with anal penetration. In both cases, inconsistent condom use was found as well as the consumption of alcohol and drugs before sexual contacts. Cases of sexually transmitted infections (STIs), sexual problems, and sexual victimization were also detected. We found statistically significant gender and sexual orientation differences in sexual behavior, STI history, sexual victimization, and sexual problems. These results are discussed in light of the effectiveness of university education and prevention programs. A need to develop new policies for promoting sexual health in Spanish university students is suggested.