Access to Sexual and Reproductive Health Services: Insights to Experiences of Sexually Active Persons with Disabilities in South Africa

Abstract

The aim of this chapter is to shed light on the experiences of sexually active women with disabilities and men of reproductive ages with regards to their sexual and reproductive health needs and access to services in Durban, South Africa. Sixteen in-depth interviews were completed with persons with various disabilities. Participants expressed that sexual and reproductive health services are a big part of their lives. However, there seemed to be a huge gap between their needs for services and their rights to access services. From the discussions it was apparent that respondent’s rights to be treated with dignity, respect and to access sexual and reproductive health services is often overshadowed by the stereotypical assumptions that society holds about the sexuality of persons with disabilities. Participants mentioned that there is preconception that persons with disabilities are not capable of engaging in sexual activities and hence they are often considered as not sexually active. This was one of the major barriers persons with disabilities experienced not only in the public healthcare sector but also in the general society. Foremost, this means that information on sexual and reproductive health matters is not widely available and/or accessible to them. This leaves them with vague knowledge about such matters. Many women reported that health providers appeared surprised that they will need family planning services. Often they are not given choices about suitable birth control methods rather the healthcare providers usually suggested to undergo abortion or to be sterilised. While sterilisation may protect women against future pregnancies, it does not, however, promote healthy sexual behaviours, which increases their risk of contracting sexually transmitted infections (STIs). The study findings revealed a need to address access to sexual and reproductive health services for persons with disabilities especially, through public healthcare system in South Africa.