Utilization of Sexual Reproductive Health Services Among Adolescents Aged 10-19 Years at Youth Friendly Spaces in Muhanga District of Rwanda

Abstract: The study assessed the utilization of Sexual and Reproductive Health (SRH) services among adolescents aged 10–19 years in Youth Friendly Spaces (YFS) in Muhanga District, Rwanda. Recognizing that adolescents constitute a significant portion of Rwanda’s population (22%), the research addressed the low uptake of SRHR services due to barriers such as stigma, misinformation, and limited access. A cross-sectional design was employed from June to November 2024, involving 385 adolescents selected across 16 youth friendly spaces using Yamene’s formula. Data were collected through semi-structured questionnaires and analyzed using descriptive statistics, bivariate, and multivariate logistic regression in SPSS version 26. Findings revealed that 55.8% of participants utilized SRHR services, with most seeking information and counseling. Gender differences were evident, as 46.0% of males and 31.8% of females reported usage (P=0.004). Age also influenced utilization—50.7% of those aged 18–19 used services compared to 22.8% aged 10–14 (P=0.971). Multivariate analysis showed that being female significantly increased the likelihood of SRHR service use [AOR=1.79, 95% CI: 1.139–2.814, P=0.012]. Similarly, adolescents whose mothers had secondary education or higher were more likely to use services [AOR=1.28, 95% CI: 1.109–2.606, P=0.049]. Participation in community events discussing SRHR topics doubled the likelihood of service utilization [AOR=2.07, 95% CI: 1.983–4.383, P=0.046], while discussing SRHR issues with sexual partners increased utilization by 29% [AOR=1.29, 95% CI: 1.101–2.013, P=0.026]. The study concluded that female adolescents, those with educated mothers, and those actively engaging in SRHR discussions with parents, peers, and during community events were more likely to access SRHR services at YFS. It emphasized the need to integrate SRHR education into community platforms such as Umuganda, Umugoroba w’Ababyeyi, and Inteko z’Abaturage to foster open dialogue and enhance adolescents’ awareness and utilization of SRHR services. Overall, the findings highlight the critical role of family and community involvement in promoting adolescent sexual and reproductive health and rights in Rwanda. Key words: Sexual Reproductive Health, Adolescents, 10-19 Years, Youth, Muhanga District, Rwanda. Title: Utilization of Sexual Reproductive Health Services Among Adolescents Aged 10-19 Years at Youth Friendly Spaces in Muhanga District of Rwanda Author: Dusabe Lise Martine, Dr. OGENDI Japheths, (PhD) International Journal of Healthcare Sciences ISSN 2348-5728 (Online) Vol. 13, Issue 2, October 2025 - March 2026 Page No: 53-63 Research Publish Journals Website: www.researchpublish.com Published Date: 24-October-2025 DOI: https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.17435158 Paper Download Link (Source) https://www.researchpublish.com/papers/utilization-of-sexual-reproductive-health-services-among-adolescents-aged-10-19-years-at-youth-friendly-spaces-in-muhanga-district-of-rwanda