Kigongo, EustesTumwesigye, RaymondAnyolitho, Maxson KennethMusinguzi, MarvinKwizera, GadAchan, EverlyneNabasirye, Caroline KambuguUdho, SamsonKabunga, AmirOmech, Bernard2024-05-032024-05-032024-04Kigongo, Eustes, Raymond Tumwesigye, Maxson Kenneth Anyolitho, et al. 'Access to Family Planning Services and Associated Factors among Young People in Lira City Northern Uganda', BMC Public Health, vol. 24/no. 1, (2024), pp. 1146.EISSN 1471-2458https://nru.uncst.go.ug/handle/123456789/9506Access to family planning services among young people is crucial for reproductive health. This study explores the access and associated factors among young people in Lira City, Northern Uganda. A mixed-methods study was conducted in March to April 2022. Quantitative data were collected using a structured questionnaire from 553 participants aged 15-24 years. Qualitative data were obtained through in-depth interviews and focus group discussions. Data analysis included univariate, bivariate, and multivariate analyses for quantitative data, while interpretative phenomenological analysis was used for qualitative data. Overall, 31.7% of the respondents had a good perceived access to family planning services, with 64.6% reporting perceived availability of FP methods. Challenges included lack of privacy (57.7%), fear of mistreatment (77.2%), and decision-making difficulties (66.2%). Among females, good perceived access to FP services was less likely among urban residents (AOR: 0.22, 95% CI: 0.09-0.53), Christian respondents (AOR: 0.51, 95% CI: 0.01-0.36), Muslim respondents (AOR: 0.07, 95% CI: 0.01-0.55) and respondents with poor attitude to FP services (AOR: 0.39, 95% CI: 0.24-0.64), but more likely among respondents with a sexual a partner (AOR: 4.48, 95% CI: 2.60-7.75). Among males, good perceived access to FP services was less likely among respondents living with parents (AOR: 0.19, 95% CI: 0.05-0.67) but more likely among respondents with good knowledge of FP services (AOR: 2.28, 95% CI: 1.02-5.32). Qualitative findings showed that three themes emerged; knowledge of family planning methods, beliefs about youth contraception and, friendliness of family planning services. The study revealed a substantial gap in perceived access to family planning services among young people in Lira City. Barriers include privacy concerns, fear of mistreatment, and decision-making difficulties. Tailored interventions addressing urban access, religious beliefs for females, and knowledge enhancement for males are essential. Positive aspects like diverse FP methods and physical accessibility provide a foundation for targeted interventions. Youth-friendly services, comprehensive sexual education, and further research are emphasized for a nuanced understanding and effective interventions in Northern Uganda.enAccess, Contraception, Family planning, Youths, Young peopleArticle