Access to reproductive health services among students with disabilities in Makerere University, Kampala

Abstract

The study investigated factors affecting access to reproductive health services (RHS) among students with disabilities at Makerere University, Kampala District. Specifically, it examined the reproductive health needs of these students, physical barriers to access, socio-economic influences, and the impact of stigma and discrimination from healthcare providers and peers. Employing a cross-sectional design, the study used both quantitative and qualitative approaches, collecting data from 64 students with disabilities and 10 University health service staff selected through simple random and purposive sampling respectively. Analysis was conducted at univariate and bivariate levels using SPSS Version 25. Findings revealed a high level of awareness and willingness to seek RHS among students with disabilities; however, actual access remains low. Key barriers identified

include inadequate physical accessibility, long distances to service points, lack of disability- friendly infrastructure, and limited dissemination of SRH information. The study found that

unfriendly attitudes of healthcare providers (r = -0.42, p = 0.00), high costs of services (r = -0.40, p = 0.00), stigma from peers and providers (r = -0.41, p = 0.00), and lack of trust in providers (r = -0.43, p = 0.00) significantly hinder service access. Conversely, students in higher years of study (r = 0.28, p = 0.04) and those with certain types of disabilities (r = 0.34, p = 0.01) were more likely to access services, possibly due to increased awareness or need. The study concludes that despite demand, systemic and social barriers continue to limit access to RHS. It recommends enhancing

inclusive SRH programming, increasing student participation in advocacy efforts, promoting peer- led outreach, and training healthcare providers in disability-sensitive care to reduce stigma and

improve service delivery.