Factors associated with the uptake of contraceptives among female sex workers in Kampala –Uganda; Case Study: Makindye and Rubaga Division

Abstract

Background: Women of reproductive age and sexually active should use modern contraceptives which is essential to securing the well-being and autonomy of women, while supporting the health and development of communities since it is freely given but female sex workers are at risk of unintended pregnancies which leads to high levels of unplanned births, unsafe abortion, and maternal injury and death. Objective: To assess factors associated with the uptake of contraceptives among female sex workers in Kampala. Methodology: An analytical cross-sectional study design was undertaken among 360 female sex workers aged between 18 to 49 years old recruited through peer-led services in 2 divisions of Kampala. A two-stage cluster stratified sampling and purposive sampling were employed with parishes as clusters and the type of hotspots as strata. Logistic regression was used to assess the factors associated with contraceptive uptake among FSWs. The data was analysed by STATA version 12 statistical software. Binary logistic regression and multi variable logistic regression analysis was used to characterize the association between the variables. Results: Uptake of any contraceptive method was at 98% with 45% using non-barrier contraceptive methods and 53% using barrier contraceptive methods. With all variables accounted for, statistically significant predictors of uptake of non-barrier contraceptive method included: having primary level education (AOR=0.5[95% C.I:0.22-0.95]) and consuming drinks containing Alcohol (AOR=2.75[95% C.I:1.42-5.32]). The predictors of uptake of barrier contraceptive method included: having primary level education (AOR=2.2[95% C.I:1.05- 4.63]), belonging to SDA as a religion (AOR=0.11[95% C.I:0.02-0.57]) and consuming drinks containing Alcohol (AOR = 0.37 [95% CI: 0.19 – 0.71]). Conclusion: The uptake of non-barrier and barrier contraceptive methods is still low. History of unintended pregnancy and high rates of abortions might promote contraceptive use, education level and consumption of drinks containing alcohol are some of the major factors that affect the uptake of contraceptives among FSWs in Kampala Uganda. The study recommends that sensitization of FSWs on the various methods of contraceptives which could improve on the uptake of contraceptives among FSWs.