Healthcare-Seeking behavior for sexually transmitted infections among women who initiated sexual intercourse at an early age in 22 Sub-Saharan African Countries: a multilevel analysis of 2018–2024 demographic and health survey data

STI-related care-seeking behavior remains lower in this population compared to other studies. Associated factors include age, education, religion, pregnancy status, employment, household wealth, media exposure, financial barriers, awareness of AIDS/STIs, cervical cancer testing, residence, and community-level factors such as education, media exposure, and poverty. Public health efforts should prioritize socioeconomically disadvantaged women by strengthening counseling and awareness during cervical cancer screenings and antenatal visits. Policies to improve healthcare access and financial support for these women are essential.