Perceived needs and barriers to accessing sexual reproductive health (SRH) services among the Ik community, Kaabong District, Uganda

Abstract

The Ik are minority group of people in Kaabong district, Uganda. They are the most marginalized. In addition, little is known about their perceived SRH needs and barriers to accessing SRH services. Objective: To determine perceived needs and barriers to accessing SRH services by the Ik community. Material and Methods: A cross-sectional analytical design with analytical was used, both quantitative and qualitative (mixed methods). Data was collected using key informant interviews, focus group discussions and semi-structured questionnaires. Sample of 345 participants selected randomly and purposively. Qualitative analysis was thematic whereas Statistical Package for Social Scientists (SPSS) was for quantitative analysis. Results: Perceived SRH needs of the Ik were; limited access to SRH information, lack of protection from gender-based violence and lack of access to comprehensive safe motherhood programs. Access to SRH services was limited mainly by poverty, limited range of available RH services, long distances to health facilities, poor attitudes of health workers, culture, poor road networks and language barriers. Individual factors; period in marriage (p=0.047), number of sex partners (p=0.041), type of house structure one lived in (p=0.039), economic activity (p=0.009) were significantly associated with access of SRH services. Conclusion: SRH needs of the Ik community is still wanting.