Access to sexual and reproductive health services among South African young people living with and without HIV during the COVID-19 pandemic

Abstract

ObjectiveTo examine sexual and reproductive health (SRH) service access among South African young people during the COVID-19 pandemic. Study designWe utilized cross-sectional data collected from February to October 2021 in Cape Town among young people 13–24 years of age living with and without HIV. ResultsTwo hundred and fifteen young people living with HIV (YPLWH) and 320 young people living without HIV were included. Young people reported an unmet need for SRH services during COVID-19, and 28% of YPLWH reported missing an HIV care appointment during the COVID-19 lockdowns. ConclusionsExpanding access to SRH services for young people during disruptive events is critical to reduce disparities in HIV and other SRH outcomes.