Introduction
Women account for nearly 50 per cent of people living with HIV worldwide. One in four women are HIV positive by the age of 24 in South Africa and 90 per cent of female infections in India occur within marriage, challenging the concept of those traditionally deemed to be at high risk of infection. Polygamy, sexual coercion and violence all contribute to these statistics while abstinence and monogamy are inadequate defences for women who often marry young and are deprived of education and social status. The female condom is an important technology that has a vital role to play in sexual and reproductive health programmes around the world. It provides women and men with an additional choice to prevent both unintended pregnancies and the transmission of sexually transmitted infections (STIs), including HIV and AIDS.
The female condom is a strong, soft, transparent polyurethane sheath that is 17cm long (about 6.5 inches, the same length as a male condom) with a flexible ring at each end. It can be inserted into the vagina up to 8 hours before sexual intercourse so will not interrupt sexual spontaneity; is not dependent on the male erection and does not require immediate withdrawal after ejaculation. It provides protection against both pregnancy and sexually transmitted infections (STIs) including HIV. Unlike latex, it can be used with both oil and water based lubricants and conducts/retains heat, so heightens sensitivity. It is not tight or constricting. More from the Female Health Company
Current debates and inititatives Recent experiences Recommended reading
The female condom is a strong, soft, transparent polyurethane sheath that is 17cm long (about 6.5 inches, the same length as a male condom) with a flexible ring at each end. It can be inserted into the vagina up to 8 hours before sexual intercourse so will not interrupt sexual spontaneity; is not dependent on the male erection and does not require immediate withdrawal after ejaculation. It provides protection against both pregnancy and sexually transmitted infections (STIs) including HIV. Unlike latex, it can be used with both oil and water based lubricants and conducts/retains heat, so heightens sensitivity. It is not tight or constricting. More from the Female Health Company
Current debates and inititatives Recent experiences Recommended reading
