Objective: To explore the views, attitudes, and experiences of South Asian women in the UK regarding sexual health services.
Methods: We performed virtual semi-structured interviews with South Asian women 18 and over living in the UK. We explored participants' experiences of accessing sexual health services, including contraception, smear tests and sexually transmitted infection (STI) tests. We coded interview transcripts and analysed them thematically.
Results: From February to April 2021, we conducted 14 interviews with South Asian women between the ages of 18 and 40 living in England and Wales, from February to April 2021. We identified four overarching themes: Access to sexual health services, entry to sexual health services, quality of sexual health services and stigma associated with sexual health services. Important barriers to sexual health services include limited knowledge of local provision, stigma and shame, and concerns about confidentiality. Participants found it difficult to discuss their sexual health (with anyone) and were often being met with judgement and a lack of partnership from clinicians.
Conclusion: Our results suggest that South Asian women are uncomfortable accessing sexual health services and communicating their sexual health concerns with health care professionals. Service providers should collaborate with community-based organisations to ensure that services are discrete, confidential, and culturally appropriate.
Keywords: South Asian; United Kingdom; contraception; reproductive health; sexual health; sexual health services; sexually transmitted infections; women.