Polygyny among men in Ghana: a population based cross-sectional study

BackgroundPolygyny has been practiced in many cultures around the world over the past couple of decades. Available evidence indicates that polygyny is practiced in more than 83% of the 849 cultures globally. Therefore, this study seeks to assess the prevalence and determinants of polygyny among men in Ghana. MethodsThis research is based on 1,892 married men using the 2014 Ghana Demographic and Health Survey (GDHS) data. Polygyny was the outcome variable. Multilevel mixed-effects logistic regression models were fitted to examine the factors associated with polygyny. The results were presented as adjusted odds ratio with 95% confidence interval. ResultsThe prevalence of polygyny was 8.8[7.5%-10.5%]. Men aged 45-59[aOR=7.01; 95%CI= [2.87,17.15] and 30-44 [aOR=4.36; 95%CI= [1.81,10.53] were more likely to engage in polygyny compared to those aged 15-29. Men in communities with high wealth status had higher odds of polygyny compared to those in communities with low wealth status [aOR=2.49; 95%CI= [1.22,5.09]. On the other hand, men with a secondary level of education [aOR=0.53;95%CI= [0.29,0.95] and those with comprehensive knowledge of HIV and AIDS [aOR=0.59;95%CI= [0.37,0.94] were less likely to engage in polygyny compared to those with no formal education and those without comprehensive HIV and AIDS knowledge. ConclusionThe study has contributed to knowledge on the prevalence and determinants of polygyny among men in Ghana. In Ghana, age, education, community wealth status, and knowledge of comprehensive HIV/AIDS are determinants of polygyny among men. Interventions to improve universal access to education and social protection policies are critical to reshaping socio-cultural practices and views that engender polygyny among men in Ghana. In addition, strengthening existing laws and policies is important in addressing the social challenges caused by polygamous unions. Furthermore, explorative studies must be conducted to identify the possible impact of polygamy on those who practice it.