Utilization of Sexual and Reproductive Health Services and Associated Factors Among the Youth in Lira City West, Northern Uganda: A Cross Sectional Study

Abstract Background: The youth in Uganda, as in much of sub-Saharan Africa, face numerous sexual and reproductive health (SRH) challenges, from HIV infection, unsafe abortions to unwanted pregnancy. This study therefore assessed the utilization of sexual and reproductive health services and associated factors among the youth in Lira City West, Northern Uganda. Methods: This was a cross sectional study conducted among 403 young people (15–24 years) in Lira City West division, Lira City. Multi stage cluster sampling technique was used. Data was collected using an interviewer administered questionnaire. Data was analyzed using SPSS version 23. Results: Out of 422 youth, 386 participated obtaining a response rate of 91.5%. Less than half, (42.0%)of the youth in Lira City West had utilized SRH services. Family planning, VCT and general counseling services were the most utilized SRH services in the past 12 months. Predictors for the utilization of SRH services were, awareness on SRH (AOR (95% C.I): 0.24(0.08,0.74), being aware of a reproductive health facility (AOR (95% C.I): 4.24(1.62,11.09), discussion of SRH issues with peers/friends (AOR (95% C.I): 3.98(1.53,10.33), having a sexual partner (AOR (95% C.I): 10.00(4.05,24.69), having sexual intercourse (AOR (95% C.I): 4.59(2.18,9.69), access to SRH services (AOR (95% C.I): 2.68(1.12,6.40). Conclusion: Utilization of SRH services among the youth was low. Therefore, there is need to develop and strengthen sustainable multisector approaches aimed at increasing awareness as well as linking the young people to youth sexual and reproductive health services.