Sexuality and the Youth with Disabilities in Kenya

Sexual expression is a basic human need throughout our lives. Sexual behaviour of young people has been a source of concern to societies worldwide due to the adverse effects on the individual as well as society at large. As a result a significant proportion of youth with disabilit ies (YWD) is infected by HIV/AIDS and other sexually transmitted infections mainly through sexual intercourse, while on the other hand prevalence of unwanted pregnancies is rising. The main objective of this study is to describe knowledge, practice, attitudes and factors influencing sexual relationships among the youth with disabilit ies in Bungoma d istrict in Western Province of Kenya. During this study a semi-structured questionnaire was administered on the respondents together with key informant interviews, focus group discussions and informal conversations. A sample population of 20 YW D aged 15 - 30 years was determined by simple rando m cluster sampling. Quantitative data were analyzed using Statistical Package fo r Social Sciences (SPSS) co mputer package. Results indicate that majority of the YW D are sexually experienced (65%) with most of them (60%) having their first sexual encounter occurring between age 12-15 years of age. There is a h igh level of lack of knowledge (75%) on sexually related issues and a negative attitude towards use of contraceptives. Factors influencing this attitude are associated with the indiv idual's background as well as health delivery systems and policy. There is need to empo wer the YW D, rev iew policies and pract ices regarding reproductive health of YWD, sexuality and family life education.