"Female condom" approved

The Food and Drug Administration approved the first so-called female condom on May 7. Despite limited data on the effectiveness of the Reality Vaginal Pouch in sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) and a relatively high pregnancy rate among users, the device was approved because it is the first barrier contraceptive for women that provides some protection against STDs. The label will be required to emphasize that for "highly effective protection" against STDs, including AIDS, latex condoms for men are the best choice. The panel must also compare the pregnancy rate for the female condom--approximately 26%/year--to rates for other barrier contraceptives, which are lower. For example, the pregnancy rate for male latex condoms is approximately 15%/year. The females condom consists of a lubricated polyurethane sheath with a flexible polyurethane ring on each end. One ring is inserted into the vagina much like a diaphragm; the other remains outside, partially covering the labia. In addition to the labeling restrictions, FDA is also requiring the manufacturer of the product, Wisconsin Pharmacal of Jackson, Wis., to take part in additional effectiveness studies for the product. FDA's decision to approve the female condom was based on a review of clinical data submitted by the manufacturer and the unanimous recommendation of the agency's Obstetrics and Gynecology Devices Advisory Panel at its meeting on December 10, 1992. Wisconsin Pharmacal studies 200 women who used the device for 6 months. The estimated pregnancy rate of 26%/year in the study is believed to have been due in part to improper use of the device by some of the subjects. (The expected rate of pregnancy among women not using any contraceptive method is 85%). Women who use the device correctly each time they have intercourse can expect a lower pregnancy rate.