[Student nurses' and nurse midwives' behavior concerning sexuality and prevention of sexually transmitted diseases in Cotonou (Benin)].

: Sexually-transmitted diseases (STDs) remain a public health problem in Benin. However, few studies have focused on the future educators, the student nurses. We studied a cross-section of the population of student nurses at the Institut National Medico-Social at Cotonou in December, 1995. The aim of the study was to describe nurses' sexual behavior and their views on STD transmission and prevention. Information was obtained from 141 students by means of an anonymous questionnaire. We found that first sexual relationships often occurred at a young age (12 years old). Sexual relations generally began between 0.25 and 60 months after meeting the partner for the first time. Men were more likely to have multiple partners than women (P < 0.05). The students' views on STD transmission and the use of condoms indicated that they lacked information. About half the students said that they use condoms during sexual intercourse. We identified four groups of students, based on condom-use. This may make more effective student education possible in the future. We suggest improved education of student nurses, greater emphasis in the school curriculum on sexually-transmitted diseases and the creation of a counseling service at the Institute.