Acceptability and use of female condoms among young people in South Africa
Reproductive Health
30
Issue: 2
(11 - 2016)
The female condom was introduced more than two decades ago and remains the only female-initiated
tool available that provides dual protection for women. The aim of this study to explore acceptability
and potential demand for the female condom in Durban, South Africa. The study draws on [5 in-depth
interviews with young women aged I8 to 30 years who reported that they had ever used the female
condom in the past. The findings highlight a number of factors that facilitate and inhibit female condom
use. Protection from sexually transmitted infections (including HIV) and pregnancy prevention facilitates
the use of the device. In addition, students expressed positive attitudes towards the female condom and
prefer it over other contraceptive methods because it offers them dual protection. Absence of side
effects, and greater power and autonomy to initiate safer sex are other factors that facilitate use.
Inadequate availability, insertion difficulties, and stigma serve as significant barriers to consistent female
condom use.
Keywords: Female Condom Use, Acceptability, Young Women, South Africa.
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