• Integration and implementation

Integration and implementation

This study from the Horizons Project examines the patterns and dynamics of female condom use in Zimbabwe. The study surveyed female condom users, male condom users and non-users to establish: who uses the female condom, why it is used, where people learn about it, how consistently it is used and if it is a substitute for the male condom. Findings show that female condom users are generally better educated and of higher socioeconomic status than male condom users and non-users of either method. The lowest rate of condom use is among married women.

The authors recommend that programme planners and researchers establish if socioeconomic status or level of education prevents use, and establish appropriate support services to facilitate access, negotiation or correct use.. They also recommend consolidating programme support for single women and married men who are already using the female condom, while developing more refined social marketing strategies and support services for under represented groups. Other recommendations include: addressing the needs of married women, training peer educators, clinicians and pharmacists to provide potential users with information and support services, and addressing insertion difficulties and complaints. [adapted from author]

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