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Huang JL, Xin X, Ma MJ, Ning Z, Xiao ST, Chen PP. A qualitative study on the clinical safety and user experiences of female condoms for anal intercourse among men who have sex with men in Shanghai, China. Front Public Health 2023; 11:1243891. [PMID: 38074717 PMCID: PMC10701689 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2023.1243891] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2023] [Accepted: 10/19/2023] [Indexed: 12/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Objective This qualitative study aimed to understand the clinical safety, efficacy, and receptiveness of using the female condom (FC) during anal intercourse among men who have sex with men (MSM). Methods Subjects for this study were recruited from a two-group crossover trial among MSM in Shanghai. The trial consisted of two phases, each including the use of condoms (FC vs. male condom), questionnaires, and in-depth one-on-one interviews. The two phases were separated by a washout period of 4 weeks. The minimum sample size for this study was determined in accordance with the principle of "information saturation." The qualitative data were organized and analyzed using ATLAS.ti version 7. Results A total of 26 participants from the MSM population were recruited for this study, with 10 assuming the insertive role (i.e., "1"), 8 assuming the receptive role (i.e., "0"), and 8 being versatile (i.e., "0.5"). Each participant completed the crossover trial comprising two phases. The cumulative usage of FCs and male condoms (MCs) amounted to 115 and 127 times, respectively. During the reported sexual encounters, no participants reported incidents of condom rupture, slippage, or other malfunctions. A few participants reported experiencing slight chafing pain, primarily put forward by "0" participants. Apart from those reports, no instances of bleeding, swelling, or allergic reactions were reported. The efficiency of FC in disease prevention, the sexual partner's willingness to use FC, the freshness of FC, and positive sexual experiences were the main reasons for the consistent use of FC for anal sex. Discomfort and pain during sexual activity, the loose design and thick material of FCs, and difficulties in placing FCs were the major obstacles to FC use among MSM. The elements referring to the forehead exhibited varied in importance among "1,", "0," and "0.5" participants. Regarding the willingness to use the FC in the future anal intercourse, 61.54% of participants expressed a positive inclination, 23.08% were uncertain, and 15.38% stated that they would not. "A better sense of security during anal sex" was the main factor affecting willingness among "0" participants and "the sexual pleasure that the FC brought" among "1" participants. Improving the design and technology of FCs and increasing the frequency of use and practice might improve the use skills, which will favor the willingness to use FCs among the MSM population. Conclusion FCs received positive user feedback from study participants, but distinctions were found in individuals in different sexual roles. Large-scale quantitative studies are needed to evaluate the clinical safety of the FC and its effectiveness in preventing the transmission of STDs during anal intercourse.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jia-Lu Huang
- School of Public Health, Dali University, Dali, China
| | - Xin Xin
- Department of Epidemiology, School of Public Health, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- Pudong New Area Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Shanghai, China
- Pudong Institute of Preventive Medicine, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Ming-Jun Ma
- School of Public Health, Dali University, Dali, China
| | - Zhen Ning
- Shanghai Municipal Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Shanghai, China
| | - Shao-tan Xiao
- Pudong New Area Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Shanghai, China
- Pudong Institute of Preventive Medicine, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Pan-pan Chen
- Department of Epidemiology, School of Public Health, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- Pudong New Area Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Shanghai, China
- Pudong Institute of Preventive Medicine, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
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Harris DM, Dam A, Morrison K, Mann C, Jackson A, Bledsoe SM, Rowan A, Longfield K. Barriers and Enablers Influencing Women's Adoption and Continuation of Vaginally Inserted Contraceptive Methods: A Literature Review. Stud Fam Plann 2022; 53:455-490. [PMID: 35922382 PMCID: PMC9545114 DOI: 10.1111/sifp.12209] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Most vaginally inserted methods have limited availability and use despite offering characteristics that align with many women's stated preferences (e.g., nonhormonal and/or on demand). The objective of this review was to identify enablers and barriers to women's adoption and continuation of vaginally inserted contraceptive methods in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). We searched three databases (PubMed, Embase, and Web of Science) and 18 websites using keywords related to five vaginally inserted contraceptive methods (diaphragm, vaginal ring, female condom, copper intrauterine device [IUD], hormonal IUD) and terms associated with their adoption and continuation. Searches were limited to resources published between January 2010 and September 2020. Studies eligible for inclusion in our review presented results on women's use and perspectives on the enablers and barriers to adoption and continuation of the vaginally inserted contraceptive methods of interest in LMICs. Relevant studies among women's partners were also included, but not those of providers or other stakeholders. Data were coded, analyzed, and disaggregated according to a framework grounded in family planning (FP) literature and behavioral theories common to FP research and program implementation. Our initial search yielded 13,848 results, with 182 studies ultimately included in the analysis. Across methods, we found common enablers for method adoption, including quality contraceptive counseling as well as alignment between a woman's preferences and a method's duration of use and side effect profile. Common barriers included a lack of familiarity with the methods and product cost. Notably, vaginal insertion was not a major barrier to adoption in the literature reviewed. Vaginally inserted methods of contraception have the potential to fill a gap in method offerings and expand choice. Programmatic actions should address key barriers and enable voluntary use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Danielle M Harris
- Danielle M. Harris is Senior Program Manager, Kate Morrison is Program Manager, and Shannon Bledsoe is Executive Director, Catalyst Global, Carlsbad, CA, United States
| | - Anita Dam
- Anita Dam is Technical Advisor for the Introduction & Access of HIV Prevention Technologies, United States Agency for International Development (USAID), Global Health Technical Professionals Program, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Kate Morrison
- Danielle M. Harris is Senior Program Manager, Kate Morrison is Program Manager, and Shannon Bledsoe is Executive Director, Catalyst Global, Carlsbad, CA, United States
| | - Chastain Mann
- Chastain Mann is Chief Executive Officer, Mann Global Health, Columbus, North Carolina, USA
| | - Ashley Jackson
- Ashley Jackson is Team Lead for Sexual & Reproductive Health, Primary Health Care Program, PATH, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Shannon M Bledsoe
- Danielle M. Harris is Senior Program Manager, Kate Morrison is Program Manager, and Shannon Bledsoe is Executive Director, Catalyst Global, Carlsbad, CA, United States
| | - Andrea Rowan
- Andrea Rowan is Independent Consultant and Kim Longfield is Founder and Principal, Databoom, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Kim Longfield
- Andrea Rowan is Independent Consultant and Kim Longfield is Founder and Principal, Databoom, Washington, DC, USA
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Barriers and Facilitators to Acceptability of the Female Condom in Low- and Middle-Income Countries: A Systematic Review. Ann Glob Health 2022; 88:20. [PMID: 35433283 PMCID: PMC8916053 DOI: 10.5334/aogh.3612] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
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Mantell JE, Exner TM, Bai D, Leu CS, Beksinska M, Mabude Z, Hoffman S, Smit JA. Perceived male partner attitudes toward the female condom predict female university students' use of the female condom. Int J STD AIDS 2021; 31:753-762. [PMID: 32631211 DOI: 10.1177/0956462420912986] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Female and male condoms are the only methods that prevent both sexually transmitted infections (STIs), including HIV, and unintended pregnancy. Despite continuing high STI rates, few studies investigate factors predicting whether women initiating female condom (FC) use sustain use. Using data from a randomized trial, we examined predictors of sustained FC use at five-month follow-up (FU2) among female university students in South Africa who participated in either a one-session, information-only, group-delivered Minimal Intervention or a two-session, group-delivered Enhanced Intervention. In the final multiple logistic regression model, believing one's partner holds positive attitudes toward the FC (aOR = 1.40; p = 0.028), and greater FC use for vaginal sex at previous assessment (aOR) = 1.19; p = 0.008) were associated with greater odds of FC use at FU2. Excluding number of FC-protected occasions at FU1 from the analysis, discussing FC use with partner (aOR = 2.89; p = 0.071) and believing one's partner holds positive attitudes toward the FC (aOR = 1.63; p < 0.001) were associated with greater odds of use at FU2. The FC empowers women to protect themselves from both STIs and unintended pregnancy, but targeted interventions are needed to address men's negative attitudes toward the device. Engaging men as FC champions to support and promote FC use, along with marketing campaigns targeted to men, may expand FC coverage and enhance uptake.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joanne E Mantell
- Department of Psychiatry, Division of Gender, Sexuality and HIV, HIV Center for Clinical and Behavioral Studies, New York State Psychiatric Institute and Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Theresa M Exner
- Department of Psychiatry, Division of Gender, Sexuality and HIV, HIV Center for Clinical and Behavioral Studies, New York State Psychiatric Institute and Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Dan Bai
- Department of Biostatistics, Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Cheng-Shiun Leu
- Department of Biostatistics, Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Mags Beksinska
- MRU (MatCH Research Unit), Department of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, The University of the Witwatersrand, Durban, South Africa
| | - Zonke Mabude
- MRU (MatCH Research Unit), Department of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, The University of the Witwatersrand, Durban, South Africa
| | - Susie Hoffman
- Department of Psychiatry, Division of Gender, Sexuality and HIV, HIV Center for Clinical and Behavioral Studies, New York State Psychiatric Institute and Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY, USA.,Department of Epidemiology, Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Jennifer A Smit
- MRU (MatCH Research Unit), Department of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, The University of the Witwatersrand, Durban, South Africa
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Gambir K, Pinchoff J, Obadeyi O, Ngo TD. Opportunities and challenges for the introduction of a new female condom among young adults in urban Zambia. Reprod Health 2019; 16:175. [PMID: 31796046 PMCID: PMC6891955 DOI: 10.1186/s12978-019-0839-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2019] [Accepted: 11/20/2019] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Expanding contraceptive method choices for sexually active youth is critical to prevent STIs/HIV and unintended pregnancies. However, preferences and decision making around contraception among young adults are not well understood. A new female condom (FC), the Woman’s Condom (WC), features an improved design and is marketed as a premium product at a higher price point. We conducted a qualitative study to examine the underlying knowledge, attitudes, and perceptions around the FC generally, the WC specifically, and to explore the opportunities and challenges of introducing the WC to young adults in urban Zambia. Methods Thirty focus group discussions comprised of 245 men and women aged 18–24 years were facilitated by local moderators in Lusaka, Zambia between August and December 2016. Data were analyzed using thematic content analysis using ATLAS.ti (Version 7.5.17). Results While interest in the newly launched WC was high, few participants recognized it, so discussion was framed around FCs more generally. The decision to use a FC is challenged by misconceptions regarding safety and correct use, cost, and women’s limited power over decision making in relationships. Participants also reported low availability of the product. Several opportunities for FC uptake were discussed, including the perception that FCs provide better sensation during intercourse compared with male condoms, and women reported enthusiasm for the opportunity to be the partner responsible for contraception. Some women expressed interest in the WC in order to ensure it was not tampered with by their partner, a practice commonly reported by both genders that reflects high levels of mistrust. Conclusions Findings suggest the FC, including the new WC, has potential to increase gender equity by giving women a product they are comfortable buying and being able to control to ensure correct use; however, future programming should address high perceived cost of the WC and women’s limited decision making power in relationships. Findings also highlight the need for interventions that include product demonstration and promote the WC as a method that provides better sensation during sex than male condoms. To increase voluntary uptake, the challenges identified here should be incorporated into future social marketing campaigns.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katherine Gambir
- Independent Consultant, One Dag Hammarskjöld Plaza, New York, NY, 10017, USA.
| | - Jessie Pinchoff
- Poverty, Gender, and Youth Program, Population Council, New York, NY, 10017, USA
| | - Olasubomi Obadeyi
- Innovations for Poverty Action - Zambia Office, Plot 26, Mwambula Street, Jesmondine, Lusaka, Zambia
| | - Thoai D Ngo
- Poverty, Gender, and Youth Program, Population Council, New York, NY, 10017, USA
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Zhou C, Hsieh E, Rou K, Tillman J, Dong W, Feng XX, Yang YZ, Yang YJ, Sun XG, Zang HJ, Wu YZ, Wu Z. Short-term acceptability of female condom use among low-fee female sex workers in China: a follow-up study. BMC Womens Health 2019; 19:77. [PMID: 31200702 PMCID: PMC6570840 DOI: 10.1186/s12905-019-0773-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2018] [Accepted: 05/30/2019] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Low-fee female sex workers (FSW) lack power to effectively negotiate male condom use with clients. Female condoms (FCs) may provide an alternative strategy. This study was conducted to assess the acceptability of FC use among low-fee FSWs, and to identify appropriate candidates for future FC promotion. METHODS A one-month follow-up study was conducted. At entry into the study, eligible participants completed a baseline questionnaire and were given 10 FCs. At the one-month follow up encounter, the number of used FC packages were counted and each participant completed a follow-up questionnaire. Logistic regression was used to identify variables associated with more frequent use of FCs (> 2 times). RESULTS A total of 312 low-fee FSWs were enrolled at baseline and all participants completed the follow-up evaluation. Among them, 123 (39.4%) participants had used more than two FCs. Participants who were illiterate or had completed at most primary school education (OR: 2.4, 95% CI: 1.4-7.2), charged ≤30 RMB per client (≤30 vs. 51-80 RMB, OR: 3.8, 95% CI: 1.9-7.6), or had consistently used condoms with regular clients in the past month (OR: 2.4, 95%CI: 1.4-4.2) were more likely to use FCs. CONCLUSION Low-fee FSWs charging ≤30 RMB per client, and those who are less educated may be appropriate initial candidates for FC promotion in China. Strategies to consider include teaching FSWs tactics for negotiation of FC use that can initially be applied with regular clients, and providing education to maximize ease-of use, and minimize discomfort with FC usage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chu Zhou
- Division of Prevention and Intervention, National Center for AIDS/STD Control and Prevention, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, 155 Changbai Road, Changping District, Beijing, 102206 China
| | - Evelyn Hsieh
- Department of Internal Medicine, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut USA
| | - Keming Rou
- Division of Prevention and Intervention, National Center for AIDS/STD Control and Prevention, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, 155 Changbai Road, Changping District, Beijing, 102206 China
| | - Jonas Tillman
- Division of Prevention and Intervention, National Center for AIDS/STD Control and Prevention, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, 155 Changbai Road, Changping District, Beijing, 102206 China
| | - Wei Dong
- Division of Prevention and Intervention, National Center for AIDS/STD Control and Prevention, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, 155 Changbai Road, Changping District, Beijing, 102206 China
| | - Xian-xiang Feng
- Division of HIV Prevention, Liuzhou Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Liuzhou, Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region China
| | - Yan-zhen Yang
- Division of HIV Prevention, Liuzhou Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Liuzhou, Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region China
| | - Yu-jun Yang
- Division of HIV Prevention, Zhangjiajie Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Zhangjiajie, Hunan Province China
| | - Xian-guo Sun
- Division of HIV Prevention, Zhangjiajie Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Zhangjiajie, Hunan Province China
| | - Hai-jian Zang
- Division of HIV Prevention, Pingnan Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Pingnan, Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region China
| | - Ying-zhen Wu
- Division of HIV Prevention, Pingnan Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Pingnan, Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region China
| | - Zunyou Wu
- Division of Prevention and Intervention, National Center for AIDS/STD Control and Prevention, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, 155 Changbai Road, Changping District, Beijing, 102206 China
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Deming ME, Bhochhibhoya A, Ingram L, Stafford C, Li X. HIV/STI interventions targeting women who experience forced sex: A systematic review of global literature. Health Care Women Int 2018; 39:919-935. [PMID: 29648926 DOI: 10.1080/07399332.2018.1464005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/17/2022]
Abstract
Women are disproportionately affected by HIV in many regions of the world and they represent the fastest growing demographic in the HIV epidemic. In addition, sexual violence against women is a global public health issue which increases women's vulnerability of HIV/STI acquisition. However, the relationship between sexual violence and HIV/STI risk are complex and contribute to the growing epidemic of women infected with HIV/STIs. Our purpose for this review is to examine existing HIV/STI interventions that target women who experience forced sex. Interventions designed to address women's unique needs in HIV/STI prevention are critical in reducing women's vulnerability to HIV/STIs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michelle E Deming
- Arnold School of Public Health, Health Promotion, Education, and Behavior, University of South Carolina, SC, USA
| | - Amir Bhochhibhoya
- Arnold School of Public Health, Health Promotion, Education, and Behavior, University of South Carolina, SC, USA
| | - LaDrea Ingram
- Arnold School of Public Health, Health Promotion, Education, and Behavior, University of South Carolina, SC, USA
| | - Crystal Stafford
- Arnold School of Public Health, Health Promotion, Education, and Behavior, University of South Carolina, SC, USA
| | - Xiaoming Li
- Arnold School of Public Health, Health Promotion, Education, and Behavior, University of South Carolina, SC, USA
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Obembe TA, Adebowale AS, Odebunmi KO. Perceived confidence to use female condoms among students in Tertiary Institutions of a Metropolitan City, Southwestern, Nigeria. BMC Res Notes 2017; 10:398. [PMID: 28800771 PMCID: PMC5553993 DOI: 10.1186/s13104-017-2730-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2017] [Accepted: 08/03/2017] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Latex condoms for men have been documented to offer high efficacy as both a contraceptive and protection against sexually transmitted diseases. This equally establishes the importance of continued research on female condoms. This study aims to investigate the perceived confidence to use the female condoms amongst undergraduate female students from selected tertiary institutions from Ibadan Southwestern Nigeria. METHODS The study was a descriptive cross-sectional survey involving 388 female undergraduate students selected through a multistage sampling technique. The survey was carried using pre-tested semi-structured questionnaires. Quantitative data were analyzed using the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences to generate frequencies, cross tabulations of variables at 5% level of significance. RESULTS Mean age of respondents 18.26 ± 3.45 with most students being 20-24 years (55.2%), single (92.8%), Yorubas (85.6%) and from the polytechnic institutions (41.0%). Only 10.8% had good perceived confidence to use a female condom. Perceived confidence was significantly higher amongst other ethnicities (19.59 ± 3.827) compared to Yoruba ethnicity (18.04 ± 3.337) (F = 9.935; p < 0.05). Likewise, students from the Polytechnic campuses exhibited significantly higher mean scores (18.81 ± 3.187) compared to others (F = 3.724; p < 0.05). Perception towards the condom was a significant factor that influenced the confidence to use a female condom (F = 9.896; p < 0.000). CONCLUSIONS Concerted efforts are advocated to improve the low perception exhibited towards the use of female condoms and the low perceived confidence to its utilization. This would help to transfer the decision making and control to women thus contributing to their empowerment and increased protection from unplanned pregnancies and sexually transmitted diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Taiwo A. Obembe
- Department of Health Policy & Management, Faculty of Public Health, College of Medicine, University of Ibadan, Ibadan, Nigeria
- Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Ayo S. Adebowale
- Department of Epidemiology and Medical Statistics, Faculty of Public Health, College of Medicine, University of Ibadan, Ibadan, Nigeria
| | - Kehinde O. Odebunmi
- Department of Hospice and Palliative Medicine, University College Hospital, Ibadan, Nigeria
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Schuyler AC, Masvawure TB, Smit JA, Beksinska M, Mabude Z, Ngoloyi C, Mantell JE. Building young women's knowledge and skills in female condom use: lessons learned from a South African intervention. HEALTH EDUCATION RESEARCH 2016; 31:260-272. [PMID: 26956041 PMCID: PMC5007577 DOI: 10.1093/her/cyw001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2015] [Accepted: 02/03/2016] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
Partner negotiation and insertion difficulties are key barriers to female condom (FC) use in sub-Saharan Africa. Few FC interventions have provided comprehensive training in both negotiation and insertion skills, or focused on university students. In this study we explored whether training in FC insertion and partner negotiation influenced young women's FC use. 296 female students at a South African university were randomized to a one-session didactic information-only minimal intervention (n= 149) or a two-session cognitive-behavioral enhanced intervention (n= 147), which received additional information specific to partner negotiation and FC insertion. Both groups received FCs. We report the 'experiences of' 39 randomly selected female students who participated in post-intervention qualitative interviews. Two-thirds of women reported FC use. Most women (n= 30/39) applied information learned during the interventions to negotiate with partners. Women reported that FC insertion practice increased their confidence. Twelve women failed to convince male partners to use the FC, often due to its physical attributes or partners' lack of knowledge about insertion. FC educational and skills training can help facilitate use, improve attitudes toward the device and help women to successfully negotiate safer sex with partners. Innovative strategies and tailored interventions are needed to increase widespread FC adoption.
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Affiliation(s)
- A C Schuyler
- Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, New York, NY 10032, USA, School of Social Work, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA 90089, USA,
| | | | - J A Smit
- MatCH Research [Maternal, Adolescent and Child Health Research], Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Durban, South Africa, School of Pharmacy and Pharmacology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa and
| | - M Beksinska
- MatCH Research [Maternal, Adolescent and Child Health Research], Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Durban, South Africa
| | - Z Mabude
- MatCH Research [Maternal, Adolescent and Child Health Research], Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Durban, South Africa
| | - C Ngoloyi
- MatCH Research [Maternal, Adolescent and Child Health Research], Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Durban, South Africa
| | - J E Mantell
- HIV Center for Clinical and Behavioral Studies, Division of Gender, Sexuality and Health, New York State Psychiatric Institute and Columbia University, New York, NY 10032, USA
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Phiri SS, Rikhotso R, Moagi MM, Bhana VM, Jiyane PM. Accessibility and availability of the Female Condom2: Healthcare provider's perspective. Curationis 2015; 38:1533. [PMID: 26842086 PMCID: PMC6091767 DOI: 10.4102/curationis.v38i2.1533] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2015] [Accepted: 09/21/2015] [Indexed: 11/01/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Despite the acceptability of the Female Condom2 (FC2) as a contraceptive method by some women, it remains inaccessible and unavailable to the majority of women because of affordability, training, distribution and marketing strategies. The FC2 affords women dual protection and the option to negotiate safe sex. OBJECTIVE This paper explores and describes the perspective of the healthcare providers regarding accessibility and availability of the FC2 as a contraceptive method in the Tshwane district. METHOD The study used an explorative, descriptive, and qualitative design. Data were collected from 26 healthcare providers who were purposively selected. In-depth face-to-face interviews were conducted with these healthcare providers in the Tshwane district. Tesch's method of open coding was used for data analysis. RESULTS Two main themes emerged, namely, the availability of the FC2 and the knowledge o fthe healthcare providers. The findings of this study indicated that the availability of the FC2 remains a challenge because of factors such as lack of affordability, inefficient procurement and lack of distribution measures. The condoms are also not available at strategic points so as to ensure accessibility. Insufficient knowledge amongst healthcare providers was described as a barrier which affects the quality of training of the service users. CONCLUSIONS It is evident that the FC2 is not yet available in all healthcare settings, therefore strategies to safeguard accessibility and availability of the FC2 as a contraceptive method are recommended.
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Moore L, Beksinska M, Rumphs A, Festin M, Gollub EL. Knowledge, attitudes, practices and behaviors associated with female condoms in developing countries: a scoping review. Open Access J Contracept 2015; 6:125-142. [PMID: 29386930 PMCID: PMC5683136 DOI: 10.2147/oajc.s55041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
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 developing 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 attributes 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.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lizzie Moore
- MatCH Research (Maternal, Adolescent and Child Health Research), Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of the Witwatersrand, Westville, Durban, South Africa
| | - Mags Beksinska
- MatCH Research (Maternal, Adolescent and Child Health Research), Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of the Witwatersrand, Westville, Durban, South Africa.,Faculty of Epidemiology and Population Health, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Alnecia Rumphs
- Florida International University, Department of Epidemiology, Stempel College of Public Health and Social Work, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Mario Festin
- World Health Organization, Special Program of Research, Development and Research Training in Human Reproduction, Department of Reproductive Health and Research, World Health Organization, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Erica L Gollub
- Florida International University, Department of Epidemiology, Stempel College of Public Health and Social Work, Miami, FL, USA
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