Access to sexual and reproductive health information and associated factors among school-going adolescents of Kaderuna Sub-County, Budaka District

Abstract

Access to sexual and reproductive health information (SRH) is lacking, and inadequate, especially among adolescents in rural populations. A dearth of information and evidence around the access to SRH information continue to favor high STI, teen pregnancy and birth rates. ObjectivesWe conducted a study aimed to assessing the accessibility of sexual and reproductive health information among school-going adolescents.MethodsWe conducted an explanatory mixed-method study with cross-sectional design in Kaderuna sub-county. Qualitative data were collected using 7 focus group discussions (FGDs) of school-going adolescents, and 12 Key informant interviews (KIIs) among teachers and health workers. Using Probability proportionate to size sampling technique; 270 adolescents were selected to respond to the quantitative data administered using a structured questionnaire to obtain information about factors associated with access to SRH information among school-going adolescents. Access to SRH information was assessed based on self-reported awareness of the different SRH services. It was categorized as poor, moderate and good access depending on the percentage score of individuals. Factors associated with access to SRH information were determined by ordered logistic regression analysis statistically significant at a 95% confidence interval. More than half 159 (58.9%) of school-going adolescents had moderate access to SRH information, 79 (29.3%) and 32 (11.9%) had poor and good access respectively.The facilitators to SRH information were: Good SRH knowledge (aOR = 2.15, 95% CI: 1.04-4.48), supported by senior women teachers in KIIs and interest by adolescents in FGDs. History of practicing cultural traditions related to SRH (aOR=2.49, 95% CI: 1.06- 5.83), which was further demonstrated by higher interest and good SRH knowledge by adolescents who had undergone traditional circumcision during FGDs. History of having penetrative sex (aOR = 3.13, 95% CI: 1.79- 5.45), as reported by adolescent girls who sought contraceptive knowledge during FGDs, and access to mobile phones (aOR= 1.72, 95% CI: 1.02- 2.90), as reported by adolescents in all FGDs.The only quantitative barrier was distance walked from home to school (aOR = 0.59, 95% CI: 0.35- 0.99), which was reported as lack of time to reach SRH information sources like health centers. Other barriers were identified during FGDs and KIIs only. Majority of school-going adolescents had moderate access to SRH information. Experiences of adolescents facilitated access to SRH information. We recommend intensifying health education to improve SRH knowledge. Consistent health communication utilizing strategies at health facilities, schools and outreaches might improve attitude and perceptions.