Unravelling Intersectional Barriers: Access to Sexual and Reproductive Health Services for Women with Disabilities in Uganda

This research delves into the accessibility of sexual and reproductive health (SRH) and family planning (FP) services for women with disabilities in Uganda, examining how intersecting identities create barriers to access and assessing the effectiveness of these services in enhancing sexual well-being. Drawing on the concepts of intersectionality and capabilities, the study adopts Levesque’s healthcare framework to analyze barriers from both the demand and supply sides. Conducted in semi-urban and rural areas of Uganda, the research utilized individual qualitative interviews with healthcare professionals, beneficiaries, non-beneficiaries, and focus group discussions. The findings reveal multifaceted challenges in SRH and FP service access for women with disabilities. Intersectional identities play a crucial role, emphasizing that access alone does not guarantee positive outcomes. Financial status significantly influences the realization of service benefits, with intriguing disparities noted between rural Kalangala and semi-urban Kampala. Disability type proves pivotal, impacting service accessibility, while education, financial dependency, and religion shape access for both beneficiaries and providers.<br/><br/>The study also critiques prevailing SRH policies for adopting a one-size-fits-all approach, neglecting the unique needs of women with disabilities influenced by their intersecting identities. The research underscores the necessity for nuanced and identity-informed SRH and FP policies tailored to address the diverse challenges faced by this demographic. It calls for a comprehensive understanding of the intricate dynamics influencing accessibility and advocates for policy adjustments that account for the complex interplay of factors shaping the experiences of women with disabilities in seeking SRH and FP services.