THE UTILIZATION OF FEMALE CONDOMS AMONG YOUNG WOMEN IN KISAUNISUB-COUNTY, MOMBASA, KENYA
Keywords:
Female condom, utilization, young women, Kenya, reproductive healthAbstract
Background: To determine the prevalence and factors associated with the utilization of female condoms among young women in Kisauni Sub-County,Mombasa, Kenya.
Design: Mixed method cross-sectional study.
Setting: Kisauni Sub-County, the largest sub-county in Mombasa County, Kenya.
Subjects: Sexually active women aged 18–24 years residing in Kisauni Sub-County.
Main outcome measures: Prevalence of female condom use and its association with demographic, knowledge-related, and attitudinal factors.
Results: Of 148 participants, only 12.8% (19) reported ever using a female
condom. Awareness was moderate 67.6% (100), yet only 39.9% (59) knew how to use the device. Knowledge of HIV and Sexually Transmitted Infection prevention was strongly associated with utilization (p<0.01). Attitudes toward ease of use significantly influenced uptake, as many perceived female condoms to be difficult compared to male condoms. No significant associations were
found between demographic factors (age, marital status, education, religion) and utilization. Partner support emerged as the primary motivator for use.
Conclusion: Female condom utilization among young women in Kisauni is low despite moderate awareness. Knowledge gaps, negative perceptions, and limited access hinder adoption. Community-based education, improved availability, and partner-inclusive interventions are needed to enhance uptake.
