Prevalence and factors associated with condom use among women aged 15-49 years in Rwanda using a survey logistic regression model: evidence from the 2019/20 Rwanda Demographic and Health Survey

Abstract

Introduction: although Rwanda's HIV prevalence has declined, many people are still acquiring or living with it. Among other methods of HIV prevention, condoms are a safe and reliable method in addition to preventing pregnancy and other sexually transmitted infections, especially when used properly. This study aimed to determine the prevalence and determinants of condom use during last sexual intercourse among reproductive-aged women in Rwanda.

Methods: using data from the cross-sectional, nationally representative Rwanda Demographic and Health Survey (RDHS) conducted in 2019/2020, we carried out secondary data analysis. A multivariable logistic regression model was applied to determine the factors associated with condom use. All analyses from the model were adjusted for unequal sampling probabilities using survey weights.

Results: results showed a 10.8% prevalence of condom use. The odds of condom use during last sex were significantly lower for women who lived with a man (adjusted odds ratio [aOR]= 0.10, CI=0.08:0.13) and those from the Southern region (aOR=0.69, CI= 0.52 to 0.92) but were significantly higher for those with primary education (aOR=1.38, CI= 1.00:1.88). Also, the rich were more significantly associated with condom use compared to the poor (aOR=1.53, 95% CI= 1.20:1.93). Those who had three or more sexual partners had higher odds of condom use than those with one partner (aOR=3.12, CI= 2.50:3.89).

Conclusion: based on the results, health promotion interventions aimed at raising awareness on HIV prevention should, therefore, target the groups that were found to have a high risk of not using condoms.