BARRIERS TO UPTAKE OF REPRODUCTIVE HEALTH SERVICES IN ADOLESCENT GIRLS LIVING WITH DISABILITIES IN KIAMBU COUNTY, KENYA

Abstract

Adolescent sexuality and its outcomes are a global concern in the area of public health because of its severe consequences and negative impacts on the well-being and health of girls. Adolescent girls with disabilities are also affected. Provision of Adolescent Sexual and Reproductive Health (ASRH) services is key to mitigating these consequences. However, even when services are available, adolescents, especially those living with disabilities, face substantial barriers. This cross-sectional study was conducted in Kiambu county, Kenya, to establish barriers to the uptake of ASRH services among adolescent girls with physical disabilities. A total of 144 adolescent girls were sampled from various institutions in the County. Semi-structured questionnaires were administered. Key informant interviews were conducted with teachers, children’s officers, and institution heads. Qualitative data were collected. Ethical approval was obtained from relevant bodies. Results indicated that 82% of the adolescents sampled were willing to use ASRH services, but only 10% actually used them. This gap can be explained by the findings of this study. Several reasons were cited for the poor uptake of services: fear of friends’ opinions, non-consenting parents, distance to the services, cost of services, and religious factors discouraging use. Measures need to be put in place to improve the use of ASRH services