Population Council Research that makes a difference

XXVII IUSSP International Population Conference
26–31 August

Abstract

"Integrating sexual and reproductive health and HIV services in public health facilities: Evidence on men's involvement and uptake of services in Kenya"
Jackline Imali Kivunaga, Timothy Osebe Abuya, James K. Kimani, and Charlotte E. Warren

Background
Men's support is key in improving the uptake of their partners' sexual and reproductive health (SRH) services, hence contributing to efforts aimed at achieving Millennium Development Goals 4, 5 and 6. The study’s objective was to explore men's perceptions on and uptake of SRH services in Kenya.

Methods
Data were derived from qualitative interviews conducted with 60 men from communities neighboring facilities that were part of a larger study that assessed the relative benefits of different models of integrated SRH/HIV service provision over separately provided services. Interviews were recorded, transcribed verbatim, translated and analyzed thematically.

Findings
Generally, men felt comfortable seeking SRH services together with their partners. Most services sought together were HIV counseling/testing and family planning services. Other services, but minimally were HIV care/treatment, antenatal, postnatal, sexually transmitted infections screening/treatment, and condoms provision. Waiting times and service scheduling at facility were some of the barriers that hindered men’s uptake of services.

Conclusions
Study demonstrates that men are receptive to seeking services together with their partners. However, existing barriers need to be addressed in order to increase men’s uptake of SRH services.

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Offsite link: IUSSP 2013 conference Web site

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