Knowledge, attitudes, practices and behaviors associated with female condoms in developing countries: a scoping review

Abstract

See, stats, and : http://www. researchgate. net/ publication / 282872244 Knowledge, attitudes, practices associated countries: a ARTICLE DOI : 10 . 2147 / OAJC . S55041 READS 23 5 , INCLUDING : Lizzie University 14 SEE Mags University 74 , 250 SEE Alnecia Florida 4 SEE Available : Alnecia Retrieved : 15 Abstract : Women in developing countries are at high risk of HIV , sexually transmitted infections , and unplanned pregnancy . The female condom (FC) is an effective dual protective method regarded as a tool for woman ' s empowerment , yet supply and uptake are limited . Numerous individual , socioeconomic , and cultural factors influence uptake of new contraceptive methods . We reviewed studies of FC knowledge , attitudes , practices , and behaviors across develop - ing countries , as well as available country - level survey data , in order to identify overarching trends and themes . High acceptability was documented in studies conducted in diverse settings among male and female FC users , with FCs frequently compared favorably to male condoms . Furthermore , FC introduction has been shown to increase the proportion of " protected " sex acts in study populations , by offering couples additional choice . However , available national survey data showed low uptake with no strong association with method awareness , as well as inconsistent patterns of use between countries . We identified a large number of method attri - butes and contextual factors influencing FC use / nonuse , most of which were perceived both positively and negatively by different groups and between settings . Male partner objection was the most pervasive factor preventing initial and continued use . Importantly , most problems could be overcome with practice and adequate support . These findings demonstrate the importance of accounting for contextual factors impacting demand in FC programming at a local level . Ongoing access to counseling for initial FC users and adopters is likely to play a critical role in successful introduction .