The practices of youth towards youth reproductive health services at Apac General Hospital, Apac district. A cross-sectional study.

Abstract

Background:

In Uganda, youth continue to experience high rates of reproductive health challenges, yet their practices toward YFRHS remain inadequately explored in many districts, including Apac. This study assessed the practices of youth towards YFRHS at Apac General Hospital, Apac District.

Methodology:

A descriptive cross-sectional study design using quantitative methods was employed. The study involved 50 youth aged 15–24 years attending the outpatient department and youth corner at Apac General Hospital. Simple random sampling was used to select participants. Data were collected using a structured interviewer-administered questionnaire and analyzed using manual tallying, coding, and Microsoft Excel. Results were presented in tables, figures, and charts.

Results:

Of the respondents, 62% were Christians, 40% had a primary education. 58% had never utilized YFRHS, while 42% had ever used it. Among those who had utilized the services, 50% had used them once, and 72% had last accessed them more than 12 months ago. Family planning was the most commonly used service (62%), while sex education programs were the least utilized (16%). More than half (52%) accessed services from non-governmental organizations, 30% from public health facilities, and 18% from private facilities. Health workers were the main initiators of service utilization (60%), followed by family members (18%), friends (12%), and self-initiative (10%).

Conclusion:

The study revealed generally poor practices toward YFRHS among youth at Apac General Hospital, characterized by low utilization and infrequent use of services.

Recommendation:

Health workers should actively engage youth, while schools and communities should be involved in promoting consistent utilization of YFRHS.