Impact of COVID-19 lockdown on reproductive health among youths (aged 18-30), case study of Goma Sub-County, Mukono District

Abstract

The COVID-19 pandemic severely disrupted health systems globally, limiting access to essential services, including sexual and reproductive health (SRH) services for youth. This study aimed to assess the level of utilization, accessibility, and factors influencing access to SRH services among youths aged 18–30 years in Goma Sub- County, Mukono District, during the COVID-19 lockdown. A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted using a quantitative approach. A sample of 89 respondents was selected through multistage and systematic sampling. Data were collected using structured questionnaires and analyzed using SPSS version 25. Findings revealed that only 18% of the youth accessed SRH services during the lockdown— significantly lower than national and regional estimates. Public health facility closures forced many to rely on private providers. Factors such as tribe, income level, prior knowledge and previous use of SRH services, and daily service availability were significantly associated with access (p < 0.05). Other barriers included stigma, restrictive curfews, and limited youth friendly services. The study concludes that the pandemic adversely affected reproductive health service utilization among youths in Goma Sub- County. It recommends increased public investment in youth-friendly reproductive health services, strengthening health system resilience during crises, expanding outreach and education efforts, and addressing socioeconomic and cultural disparities to ensure equitable access to reproductive healthcare for young people.