Utilization of Reproductive Health Services and Associated Factors among Youths in Mombasa County, Kenya

Background: Reproductive health has become a global concern that is either poorly understood or not fully appreciated among the youth. Access to reproductive health services is important for protecting youth from STIs and unwanted pregnancy problems.

Aim: The study sought to establish utilization of reproductive healthcare services and associated factors among youths in Mombasa County, Kenya.

Study Design: A descriptive cross-sectional study was carried out between August 2018 and January 2019.

Methodology: A self-administered, structured questionnaire was utilized to gather information. The information gathered was summarized using an SPSS database. The data was analyzed with SPSS version 22. Logistic regression was done to identify possible factors associated with reproductive health service utilization. p-value less than 0.05 was considered as a level of significance.

Results: A total of 384 youth participated in the study, including 200 (62.2% females and 184 (37.8%) males. The media was the main source of information for modern family planning methods 200 (50. 1%). The majority of users 326 (84.9%) sought contraceptives from pharmacies. 213 (55.5%) were utilizing modern contraceptives. HIV/AIDS risk perception was significantly associated with utilization of reproductive health services [COR=2.34, 95% CI: 2.19-5.34].The condom was the most used method 134 (34.9%). Having knowledge about reproductive health services [COR=2.87; 95% CI: 1.92-3.94] was positively associated with the outcome. Male respondents were three (3) times more likely to use condoms [OR = 2.86, 95% Cl: 1.82-4.91] than female respondents.

Conclusion: There was low uptake of contraceptive services among the youth who were sexually active. The condom was the most commonly used contraceptive. Strengthening urban healthcare systems is key to have equality and improve accessibility of FP services among the teenagers and young women.