Utilization of modern contraceptive and associated factors among female sex workers in Gulu municipality, northern Uganda

Abstract

Improving women’s health through modern contraceptive utilization is the key strategy to prevent unwanted pregnancy and its complications among female sex workers. However, there was limited evidence on utilization of modern contraceptive methods among female sex workers’ population in the study area. This study identified factors associated with utilization of modern contraceptive methods among female sex workers in Gulu Municipal of Gulu District. To examine the utilization and associated factors of modern contraceptives among female commercial sex workers in Gulu Municipality, Northern Uganda. A descriptive and analytical cross-sectional study design was adopted. A Sample size of 368 was determined. Purposive sampling approaches through Snowball sampling technique was used and data was collected using structured questionnaires and key informant’s interviews. Data was cleaned and entered into SPSS version 22.0 for statistical analysis at 95% Confidence Interval. Bivariate and multivariable logistic regression model was fitted to identify factors associated with modern contraceptive utilization. Odds ratio with 95% confidence interval (CI) was computed to determine the level of significance. On the other hand, qualitative data was organized into themes. Modern contraceptive methods prevalence of utilization was 46.2%. Age of respondent (AOR: 0.82, 95% CI: 0.68-1.00), Level of education (AOR: 0.44, 95%CI: 0.26-0.74), Respondents’ knowledge about modern contraceptives (AOR: 106.03, 95% CI: 14.08-789.71), Sexual partner’s consent (AOR: 2.82, 95%CI: 1.62-4.90), average monthly income afford modern contraceptive (AOR:0.3, 95%CI: 0.16-0.55), lacking money have ever hindered use of modern contraceptives (AOR:1.93, 96%CI:1.01-3.70), far distance to the nearest health centre (AOR:2.13, 95%CI:1.53-2.98), Lack of privacy during counseling (AOR:0.23, 95% CI:0.11 0.48), positive attitude of health care provider (AOR:4.21, 95%CI:2.18-8.12), were the factors associated with modern contraceptive methods utilization among sex workers n Gulu Municipal. Modern contraceptive utilization was found to be low. There is need to create modern contraceptive drop in centres for the most at risk population. Training or facility-based mentorship of health workers on communication skills is paramount to improve their knowledge and skills as well as motivation for quality and effective service provision. Work with cultural leaders to make them appreciate the benefits of family planning, and male involvement in reproductive health services is crucial.