The use of implant contraceptive methods has increased among the youth in Nairobi and Kisumu counties, report shows.

The report was made following a survey conducted by the Network for Adolescents and Youth of Africa (NAYA) in between July 28 and November 4. The survey was aimed at assessing the quality of health care services for adolescents living in informal settlements. 

According to the report, 32 per cent of the respondents revealed that they used implants, as 22 per cent used three-month injections while only one percent confirmed using condoms.

“In addition, adolescents and young people also highlighted ‘other’ contraceptive-preferred methods which included; Intrauterine Contraceptive Devices (IUCD) and Implants. Condom use and non-use of any contraceptive method received the least responses,” read the report.

The report also attributed the increased use of contraceptives to the upsurge in active sexual activities among young adults.

To ascertain this, the survey further sought to track the progress and level of adequate provision and access to sexual reproductive health and rights information and services within the Health Facilities. 

“Through the reflection, it was evident that adolescents and young people are actively engaging in sexual behaviors, with the majority's preferred contraceptive methods being Depo,  Emergency contraceptive pills, and oral pills,” it added.

The adolescent’s ability to use their preferred contraceptive method showed reproductive autonomy and healthcare access. 

55 per cent of the respondents strongly agreed that the health care providers’ manners and attitude were efficient and that they were satisfied with the level of services provided while 35 per cent only agreed on the same.

The report also showed that the health facilities provide a youth-friendly environment therefore, it encouraged access to health services as 46 per cent strongly agreed and 36 percent agreed.

 On the level of confidentiality in keeping a patient’s medical information, 69 per cent of the youth strongly agreed while 26 per cent agreed that they could trust the health care providers with their personal information.

The report recommends that the counties should ensure the implementation of existing policy frameworks including the national guidelines for the provision of adolescent and youth friendly services.

The exercise engaged a cohort of adolescents (age 15-24) drawn from Nairobi’s Kibera (Kianda 42 Hospital), Kibra DO Health Center and Huruma Lions and Kisumu’s Nyalenda (Dunga Health Center) and Kondele (Kuoyo Health Facility and Migosi Health Facility).