Sexual Behavior and Contraceptive Use Among 15-24-Year-Olds in Uganda

Abstract

Based on the findings of the Ugandan Adolescent Fertility Survey sexual behavior and contraceptive use among young adults aged 15-24 in both rural and urban Uganda were examined. The survey consisted of 2 phases which took place on August through October 1988 and August and September 1989. The data from 4510 eligible respondents were analyzed. A description of the social and demographic characteristics of the respondents is provided. As the survey data reveal sexual activity begins at an early age in Uganda. At the time of the survey 85% of the male sample and 81% of the female sample were sexually experienced. The mean age at first coitus was 15.1 among sexually experienced males and 15.5 among sexually experienced females. The survey also found that nearly 1/2 of all female respondents had ever been pregnant (11% were pregnant at the time of the survey). While 34% of women in small urban centers reported ever being pregnant the ratio was 61% for rural young women. Of the women who had ever been pregnant 14% reported having an abortion. Since Uganda allows abortion only for medical reasons it is suggested that in reality abortion is far more common. Awareness of contraceptive methods was over 80% for both males and females but fewer than 25% of the sexually active respondents who desired no children actually used contraception. Contraceptive prevalence was significantly lower in rural areas. lack of access to contraception led the reasons for nonuse of contraception followed by safety concerns and lack of knowledge. These findings suggest the need to make contraceptive service delivery available to adolescents in all parts of the country.