Notes on the female condom: experiences in Brazil.

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Sexual Health
• Reproductive Health

Background:

• Brazil's Ministry of Health initiated a nationwide female condom (FC) introduction in public health services (1998-99).
• A preparatory study was conducted across 20 sites in six cities to assess FC feasibility.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the adoption, acceptability, and impact of the female condom (FC) in Brazilian public health settings.
• To determine factors influencing FC use and effectiveness in promoting safer sex practices.

Main Methods:

• Training clinic health workers to conduct the study and educate participants.
• Recruiting 2382 women volunteers to use the FC and attend 15-day and 90-day follow-ups.
• Assessing FC usage, user satisfaction, and changes in barrier method use at last intercourse.

Main Results:

• At 90-day follow-up, 1453 women had used the FC, with 1296 liking it and desiring continued use.
• Barrier method use (male or female condom) at last intercourse more than doubled from baseline (33%) to 90 days (70%).
• Clinics with active health education showed higher follow-up rates and FC acceptability.

Conclusions:

• Introduction of the FC in Brazilian public health centers can achieve high initial adoption and sustained use.
• The female condom (FC) is effective in increasing safer sex practices.
• Health education levels and clinic type significantly influence the success of future FC programs.