• Efficacy

Efficacy

This study, commissioned by the Female Health Foundation and the Hindustan Latex Family Planning Promotion Trust, aims to assess the acceptability and feasibility of female condoms among users and non-users of male latex condoms in India. The study examines the barriers and enabling factors which affect use of the female condom, determines how the female condom fosters communication between partners, and explores how socio-cultural, gender-related, environmental and economic factors influence use.

The study found consistent use of the female condom among all participants of the study. Usage levels were above 90 percent, but dropped slightly towards the end of the study, indicating the need for regular and timely counselling on potential problems. The study also found that the biggest barrier to use was partner perception and acceptance. However, many female sex workers expressed a willingness to use the product in future because it was seen as a woman initiated method, leading to empowerment in decision making where clients refused or were unable to use a male condom. The study concludes that there is considerable acceptability and feasibility among users provided certain programmatic interventions on training, advocacy and counselling are made. [adapted from author]

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