Knowledge of HIV/AIDS and Perceived Contraceptive Access among Indian Adolescents: Evidence from UDAYA Data

S Prinitha; Tony P Jose

doi:10.55489/njcm.160620255348

Authors

S Prinitha School of Social Sciences and Languages, Vellore Institute of Technology, Vellore, India
Tony P Jose School of Social Sciences and Languages, Vellore Institute of Technology, Vellore, India https://orcid.org/0000-0002-6246-4076

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.55489/njcm.160620255348

Keywords:

Adolescents, Perceived Contraceptive Access, Sexual Health, HIV/AIDS knowledge, Condom Awareness

Abstract

Background: Access to contraceptive methods among adolescents is a critical factor in improving sexual and reproductive health outcomes. The study investigated the determinants of perceived contraceptive access among Indian adolescents by exploring role of HIV/AIDS knowledge, condom awareness, health facility accessibility, and socio-demographic variables, while analysing gender differences.

Methodology: Data from Understanding the Lives of Adolescents and Young Adults (UDAYA) – Wave 2 (2018-19) included 2,716 adolescent boys and 10,425 adolescent girls, both aged 15–19 years. Descriptive analysis, Chi-square test and multivariate logistic regression were employed.

Results: Significant gender disparities exist across all variables (p<0.001), particularly in health facility accessibility (χ²=2200), condom awareness and HIV/AIDS knowledge, and perceived contraceptive access. Multivariate analysis revealed condom awareness most strongly associated with perceived contraceptive access for both boys (OR=2.69, 95%CI:2.07-3.50) and girls (OR=1.45, 95%CI:1.32-1.60). HIV/AIDS knowledge and health facility access also significantly increased perceived contraceptive access odds in both groups. Socioeconomic factors played a crucial role in determining perceived contraceptive access.

Conclusion: Enhancing adolescents perceived contraceptive access requires improving HIV/AIDS knowledge, condom awareness, and healthcare accessibility. Especially for teenagers from different socioeconomic strata, policy interventions need to focus on removing barriers to healthcare access.

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