Condom use among commercial sex workers in Kawempe Division, Kampala District.
Abstract
Description
Background: In Kampala district, commercial sex workers (CSWs) have been reported with high incidence of sexually transmitted diseases (Ministry of Health 1998). As one of the methods of STDs/HIV prevention, the level of condom use in Uganda's general population has been documented while that of CSWs is not well documented. General objective The study aimed at generating information on the level of condom use and the factors influencing condom use among CSWs in order for the District Health Team to develop strategies to ensure safer commercial sex. Methodology: A community based cross-sectional study that employed quantitative and qualitative methods of data collection was conducted. A total of 114 CSWs were interviewed using a semi structured questionnaire. Focus group discussion and key informant interviews were also conducted. The study participants were identified by community peer educators and consecutively enrolled for the study. Quantitative data was analysed using EPiINFO 6.0 version and presented in tables and figures. Qualitative data was analysed using a master sheet and presented in text form. Results: Most (63.7%) of the respondents were between 15-24yrs, single (65.8%), attained ordinary level secondary education (47.4%). Majority (96%) of CSWs reported to use condoms during sexual encounters with clients. However only 64% (731114) reported to consistently use condoms. Preventing STDs and unwanted pregnancy were the major reasons for consistent condom use while desire for more money obtained from unprotected sex was a major reason for inconsistent (23137) and no condom use (3/4). Knowledge on indications for condom use was; to prevent STDs (84.2%) and unwanted pregnancy (77.2%). Most (92%, 10511 14) of the respondents had a positive attitude towards condom use and perceived themselves to be at risk of STDs/HIV (75%). Conclusion. The level of condom use among CSWs was high but consistent condom use was 64%. Respondents had high knowledge on indications for condom use, had a positive attitude towards their use and perceived themselves at risk of STDs/HIV. However desire for higher monetary gains from unprotected sex was the major obstacle for consistent condom use. Recommendations: The DHT should target CSWs and their clients when disseminating STDs/HIV information on importance of consistent condom use. The DHT should encourage CSWs to create more alternative income generating activities to supplement commercial sex work an intervention aimed at increasing the level of consistent condom use.
Keywords
Condom use, Unprotected sex, Kampala District, Prostitution, STDs, HIV/AIDS, Prevention, Pregnancy, Kawempe Division, Commercial sex workers