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A study on the acceptability of the female condom, Femidom, shows that "it provides a reliable men-for-women protection against pregnancy as well as the HIV virus".
The results of the study also show that Femidom empowers women by enhancing their control over their bodies, and protects them, especially against men under the influence of alcohol or drugs, when there is a reduced chance of male condom use.
The 2001 study, funded by the UN Population Fund and conducted by the Society for Women with AIDS in Africa-Burundi, involved 320 women and lasted two months.
Other reported benefits over male condoms include comfort, softness, greater sexual satisfaction, and a better smell. However, 49 per cent of the respondents in the survey found Femidom difficult to use and ill-adapted to local sexual practices.
Despite its benefits, Femidom is relatively expensive compared to male condoms. Some women find it difficult to use because of the nature of the female genitalia. "In short, the reluctance over its use limits its level of acceptance", the study said.
It recommended that Femidom be sold at subsidised prices because of the population's weak purchasing power. It also called for an information campaign on the proper use of Femidom, and a special effort to change male attitudes to it.
This article was produced by IRIN News while it was part of the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs. Please send queries on copyright or liability to the UN. For more information: https://shop.un.org/rights-permissions
