Title: Have we all forgotten the female condom? [letter]

POPLINE Document Number: 195369

Author(s):

Philpott A

Source citation:

Global AIDSLink, 2004 Apr-May;(85):10.

Abstract:

While I welcome the recent press release about the need for female-controlled prevention methods, the increased vulnerabilities of women and girls to HIV infection and the launching of a new Global Coalition on Women and AIDS, I must admit it left me saddened - and not only because of women's vulnerabilities to HIV and the advance of the epidemic. How can we discuss the need for new female-initiated prevention methods, the lack of negotiation skills women tend to have, the risk of violence against women and increases in HIV infection driven by gender vulnerabilities, and actually fail to mention the female condom? The female condom is the only new prevention technology invented during this epidemic; and, at present, it is the only female-initiated one. Statements such as "a lack of existing female-controlled HIV prevention methods" only serve to damage the work we are trying to do to strengthen the resources for women and men to use female condoms. I welcome with open arms the need for more female-initiated methods, but believe that this should be in a context of complementing existing methods. The history of contraception shows that the more options for birth control that exist, the more people will use birth control - providing diversity and choice is a good thing, in terms of public health. (excerpt)

Keywords:

Global
Critique
AIDS Prevention
HIV Prevention
Epidemics
Female Condom
Condom Use
Contraceptive Distribution
Funds
AIDS
HIV Infections
Viral Diseases
Diseases
Vaginal Barrier Methods
Barrier Methods
Contraceptive Methods
Contraception
Family Planning
Risk Reduction Behavior
Behavior
Distributional Activities
Program Activities
Programs
Organization and Administration
Financial Activities
Economic Factors