Acceptability and use of female condoms among young people in South Africa

Abstract

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 15 in-depth interviews with young women aged 18 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.