Patterns of Condom Use and Abstinence among Unmarried Youth Age 15-24 in Uganda

Nazarius Mbona Tumwesigye, University of Southampton
Holmes David, University of Southampton

HIV prevalence in Uganda reduced from a median of 19.8% in 1995 to 5.5% in 2001 among women attending antenatal care at sentinel sites but the rate of decline was lower in 1996-2001 period (1.3% per year) compared to 1992-1995 (2.4% per year). The aim of this paper is to investigate patterns and differentials of condom use and abstinence among young unmarried women in 1995 and 2000/1. The results from analysis of DHS data using multivariate logistic regression showed a drop in abstinence and a three fold increase in condom use. Factors associated with reduced abstinence were, age 20-24, residence in central region and short stay at place of residence while those for high condom use were urban residence, higher education and again residence in central region. The influence of the factors didn't change by year. Policy and program should at least promote abstinence at same level with condom use.