Abstract
ObjectiveThis study aims to explore the knowledge and sources of accessing sexual and reproductive health services and care information among visually impaired women in Ghana. Qualitative data involving in-depth interviews and focus group discussions were conducted among 21 visually impaired women selected through purposive and snowballing sampling techniques. Thematic Analysis was used to analyse the data.ResultsThe study showed that visually impaired women were active seekers of SRH information (knowledgeable about SRH information and understand the relevance of accessing such information) and passive recipient of SRH information (through formal and informal sources). However, some contextual factors (lack of family and caregivers support services) created barriers for visually impaired women when accessing SRH information. Government advocacy and awareness campaigns on SRH services should consider both formal and informal sources. Family caregivers and SRH health centres should provide adequate support services for visually impaired women regarding information on SRH service.
Highlights
Health information seeking behavior generally outlines the activities that involve the search and use of information on diseases and health related activities [1]
Active information seeking The knowledge of sexual and reproductive health (SRH) services information is significant to influence the health-seeking behaviour of visually impaired women [1]
The findings from this study confirmed that visually impaired women were knowledgeable about SRH services information
Summary
Theme 1: Knowledge on SRH services and care Participants described SRH services and care as sexual intercourse between a male and a female, prevention against Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STDs) and family planning. The females use SRH services and care to prevent unplanned pregnancy whilst males use it to prevent themselves against Sexually Transmitted Diseases. Most participants have heard about the various forms of SRH services and care which include family planning methods and STDs (HIV prevention). Have heard of SRH services and care Sexual intercourse (between a male and a female) Measures used to prevent unplanned pregnancy. [...] What I understand about family planning is that it protect you from unplanned pregnancy so that when you have any sexual encounter with a man you will not become pregnant (IDI Participant 5, Visually Impaired Woman). “it may happen that you have been invited by a health worker in a durbar to talk in a community but you the blind person will not be having a caregiver to take you to that gathering to listen to what is going on” (FGD1, Participant 5)
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