Disparities in Sexual and Reproductive Health Service Utilization and Associated Factors among Adolescents with and without Disability in Southern Ethiopia

Abstract

Background. 1 in 4 people in Ethiopia are adolescents, and around 1% of them are affected by one form of disability. However, there is little knowledge about factors affecting sexual and reproductive health service utilization to the adolescent with or without disabilities. This study aimed to assess the disparities of sexual and reproductive health (SRH) service utilization and factor associated among adolescents with or without disabilities in southern Ethiopia. Methods. Institutional-based cross-sectional study was conducted among 422 adolescents (211 with disabilities and 211 without disabilities). Multistage sampling was conducted. Data were collected by four diploma health workers, and one of the data collectors could communicate with sign languages. Multivariable logistic regression was used to identify sociodemographic factors associated with outcome variables. Result. The SRH utilization among students with and without disabilities was 40.52% and 69.1%, respectively. Having an open discussion with peers (AOR = 2.5; 95% CI: 1.60–3.94), having good knowledge (AOR = 1.9; 95% CI: 1.21–3.09), and participating in a school club (AOR = 1.9; 95% CI: 1.19–3.19) were factors positively associated with SRH services utilization. Conclusion. The overall SRH utilization was found to be low for students both with and without disabilities. Variables like having good knowledge, ever having discussions on SRH issues with peers, and participating in school clubs were found to be significantly associated. Therefore, governmental and NGOs should strengthen their SRH friendly service with a special focus on peer discussion and awareness creations.