Female condoms stronger than latex

Naomi Prince, this country’s National Family Planning Coordinator, is reminding Vincentian women that the female condom provides a good opportunity for them to take control of their reproductive health, as well as protect them against pregnancy and Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STDS).{{more}}

Prince disclosed that the promotion of the female condom is a project that is currently being executed by the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) in St.Vincent and the Grenadines and across the wider Caribbean.

So far, UNFPA has trained 10 local health care providers to undertake this task.

Prince noted that the product was first introduced in St.Vincent and the Grenadines in April 2006. However, at the moment, efforts are being made by the Ministry of Health to conduct a systematic programme to sensitize more females and males about its use. At the end of 2007, said Prince, some 8,751 female condoms had been distributed throughout the state.

According to Prince, the female condom is inserted into the vagina prior to sexual intercourse and provides protection against both pregnancy and sexually transmitted infections (STIs), including HIV/AIDS.

She described it as a strong, soft, transparent sheath that is 6.5 inches long, the same length as a male condom. It also has a flexible ring at each end.

The NFP Coordinator said this type of condom has several advantages, among them: Female control, dual protection, and insertion before intercourse (up to 8 hours). She added that it does not require an erect penis for use, or the need to withdraw immediately. This type of condom can be used with oil and water based lubrication. It has few, if any allergic reactions, Prince explained.

She further stated that the material the female condom is made of is stronger than latex, which is used to make most male condoms.

Reviews on the female condoms claim that the material conducts heat, and as a result of this, sex with the female condom can feel very sensitive and natural.

These materials are also odourless, not constricting, and do not require a prescription or the intervention of a health care provider.

“It is a wise option. It is a method that empowers women to take control of their reproductive health. There are times when they cannot get their male partners to use the male condoms. This is a good opportunity to take control and protect themselves against pregnancy and sexually transmitted disease,” said Prince.

Prince explained that while some persons may get allergic reactions from the male condoms, there are very few allergic reactions when using the female condom.

She advised that similar to the male condom, females must be skilled in using the female condom.

Prince said the female condom enhances the sex life of persons who are interested in having responsible sexual relations.

“It can be pleasure and it can be fun to use,” she emphasized.(HN)