UTILISATION OF SEXUAL AND REPRODUCTIVE HEALTH SERVICES AMONG ADOLESCENTS IN URBAN INFORMAL SETTLEMENTS OF LUSAKA DISTRICT, ZAMBIA

Abstract

Sexual and reproductive health and right of adolescents is a global priority as the reproductive choices made by them have a massive impact on their health and economy. This study aimed at assessing factors associated with utilization of sexual and reproductive health services among adolescents at Kanyama, Chibolya and George compounds. A cross-sectional study was done between June and August 2023. The study used a random sampling method to select participants. Data collection was done using structured questionnaire. Associations were determined using chi-square or Fishers exact test based on assumptions. Logistic regression analysis was conducted to explore the associations between these factors and SRH service utilization at 5% level of significance. STATA version 16 was used for analyses. A total of 388 adolescents were analyzed in this study. Overall, few adolescents had utilized SRH while majority of them not in the last 3 months. The study found that adolescents living with both parents or a single parent have a higher likelihood of utilizing SRH services compared to those under the care of other guardians (AOR = 3.47, 95% CI = 1.57, 7.64, p= 0.002). Adolescents who relied on pocket money were less likely to utilize SRH services compared to those with alternative funding sources such as boyfriends or financial clubs (AOR = 0.25, 95% CI = 0.06, 0.99, p= 0.049). Relationship status also played a crucial role, with dating adolescents and sexually active adolescents exhibiting higher odds of SRH service utilization (AOR = 0.18, 95% CI = 0.03, 1.00, p = 0.049). Moreover, age at first sexual intercourse was found to be a pivotal factor, with both early and delayed initiations associated with increased SRH service utilization (AOR = 4.50, 95% CI = (2.24, 9.05), p < 0.0001). Importantly, awareness of the existence of SRH service providers emerged as a significant predictor of utilization (AOR = 2.83, 95% CI = (1.56, 5.14), p < 0.001). The utilization of SRH services remains below optimal levels. Factors such as living with both parents and being sexually active increase the likelihood of seeking SRH services. Conversely, reliance on pocket money for payment is associated with a lower likelihood of utilizing these services. Effective interventions aimed at improving the utilization SRH services among adolescents should consider the significance of factors such as family support and financial accessibility.

Key Words: Adolescent, Sexual reproductive health, Zambia

DOI: 10.7176/JCSD/73-06

Publication date: June 30^th 2024