Sexual Behaviours and Experiences of Young People with Physical Disabilities in Accessing Sexual and Reproductive Health Information and Services in Kyotera District

Lodrick Odo, Makerere University
Patricia Ndugga, Makerere University, Department of Population Studies, College of Business and Management Sciences
Betty Kwagala, Makerere University

Young people living with disabilities form one of the most vulnerable population groups globally, yet their experiences and needs are often disregarded in debates about sexual and reproductive health. Regardless, understanding their sexual behaviours and experiences in accessing sexual and reproductive health information and services is critical to ensuring their overall well-being and empowerment. We conducted a qualitative study among 12 YPWDs and 7 key informants to explore the sexual behaviors and experiences of YPWDs, focusing on their access to SRH information and services in a Ugandan border context (Kyotera district) known for high rates of early sexual initiation. The findings revealed that a significant number of YPWDs were engaging in sexual activity with multiple partners, often practicing unsafe sex, consequently increasing the risk of unwanted pregnancies. Moreover, sexual violence, engagement in transactional sex, and long distances to health facilities emerged as significant experiences for YPWDs.