Knowledge, attitudes and factors associated with uptake of modern contraceptive methods among young women living with disabilities in Botswana

Abstract

Background: Young women living with disabilities in Botswana face significant challenges in accessing reproductive health services, including modern contraceptive methods, yet their unique needs and barriers to uptake remain underexplored.
Aim: The aim of this study is to assess the knowledge, attitudes and factors associated with the uptake of modern contraceptive methods among young women living with disabilities in Botswana.
Setting: This study was conducted in eight districts in Botswana, within organisations that offer services to people living with disabilities.
Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted among young women (10–30 years) living with disabilities, recruited through non-probability purposive sampling from disability service organisations. Using an interviewer administered tool, data collected was analysed using STATA 15.
Results: Among the 349 participants, the pattern of disabilities were deaf or hard of hearing (36.68%), physical disability (30.09%) and albinism (1.43%). The majority (71.6%) were aware of contraceptive methods, and 69.6% received information from health personnel. Of those, 60.4% knew oral pills, and 81.6% linked modern contraceptives to preventing sexually transmitted infections. About 38.3% reported using modern contraceptives, mainly male condoms. Stigmatisation fears emerged as a significant barrier (36.0%).
Conclusion: Knowledge, gaps and unfavourable attitudes towards contraception were evident suggesting a need for interventions to meet needs of young people living with disabilities.
Contribution: The study provides critical insights into the knowledge, attitudes and barriers affecting the use of modern contraceptives among young women living with disabilies in Botswana, offering evidence to inform more inclusive healthcare policies and programmes.