Barriers and facilitators impacting access to sexual and reproductive health services for women with intellectual disability - Report - MDSpire

Factors Influencing Access to Sexual and Reproductive Health Services for Women with Intellectual Disabilities

  • By

  • Hiwot Temesgen Andualem

  • Susan A. Bartels

  • Tewodros Seyoum

  • Bilen Mekonnen Araya

  • Beata Batorowicz

  • Heather M. Aldersey

  • July 16, 2026

Share

Factors Influencing Access to Sexual and Reproductive Health Services for Women with Intellectual Disabilities

Overview

This study explores the barriers and facilitators affecting access to sexual and reproductive health services for women with intellectual disabilities in Gondar, Ethiopia.

Background

Access to sexual and reproductive health (SRH) services is crucial for overall well-being, yet women with disabilities face unique challenges that limit their access. Women with intellectual disabilities experience compounded discrimination, making them particularly vulnerable to inadequate healthcare services.

Data Highlights

No numerical data was provided in the source material.

Key Findings

  • Women with intellectual disabilities face stigma and discrimination in accessing SRH services.
  • Barriers include lack of education on sexual and reproductive health and limited access to contraception.
  • Community-based rehabilitation plays a role in influencing access to SRH services.
  • Women reported experiences of sexual abuse and the need for prevention measures.
  • Pregnancy and parenthood are significant concerns that require tailored support for women with intellectual disabilities.

Clinical Implications

Healthcare providers should be aware of the unique barriers faced by women with intellectual disabilities when accessing SRH services.

Conclusion

The study highlights the need for addressing the barriers to sexual and reproductive health services for women with intellectual disabilities.

Related Resources & Content

  1. Frontiers in Psychiatry, 2026 -- Systems and policy factors affecting service delivery for homeless adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities
  2. BMC Medicine, 2026 -- Bowel cancer care in individuals with an intellectual disability: a population-based cohort study of symptoms, diagnostic pathways, treatment and survival
  3. Journal of General Internal Medicine, 2026 -- Structural Ableism and Healthcare Transition for Adults with Intellectual and/or Developmental Disabilities
  4. the asco post, 2025 -- Eliminating Barriers to Care for Patients With Intellectual and/or Developmental Disabilities
  5. Access to Obstetric and Gynecologic Care for Patients With Disabilities | ACOG, 2025
  6. Patient Experiences in Accessing Reproductive Health Services for Women With Cognitive, Intellectual, and Developmental Disabilities: A Systematic Review - ScienceDirect, 2025
  7. Barriers and facilitators of sexual and reproductive health service utilization among young people with disabilities: A scoping review - PubMed, 2025
  8. Access to Obstetric and Gynecologic Care for Patients With Disabilities | ACOG
  9. Patient Experiences in Accessing Reproductive Health Services for Women With Cognitive, Intellectual, and Developmental Disabilities: A Systematic Review - ScienceDirect
  10. Barriers and facilitators of sexual and reproductive health service utilization among young people with disabilities: A scoping review - PubMed

Original Source(s)

Related Content