“Sex Makes One’s Body to be Okay”: A qualitative perspective of sexual behaviour and consequences among persons with disabilities in Oyo State, Nigeria

Abstract

This study examines the sexual behavior and consequences among persons with disabilities (PWD) in Oyo State, Nigeria, a significant yet often overlooked group representing 8.3% of Nigeria’s population. With PWD facing challenges in sexual and reproductive health (SRH), including limited access to services, societal stigma, and vulnerability to sexual exploitation, this research analyzed 41 in-depth interviews among PWD aged 18 and above across five local government areas of Oyo state. The findings dispel the misconception that PWD are asexual, revealing diverse sexual behaviors; some participants had multiple or singel partners, while others had none. Contraceptive use varied, with inconsistent adherence due to factors like trust in partners, physiological reasons, and a desire for children, although some used contraception to prevent STIs and unintended pregnancies, aligning with the Theory of Reasoned Action (TRA). The study highlights both positive sexual behavioural consequences, such as, good bodily feeling, social connection and childbearing, and negative consequences, including STIs, unplanned pregnancies, and single parenting. These insights emphasize the urgent need for tailored SRH interventions, including education and contraceptive awareness programs, by non-governmental and community-based organizations.