Female condom uptake and acceptability in Zimbabwe

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Sexual Health
• HIV/STI Prevention

Background:

• Assessing novel HIV/STI prevention methods is crucial for vulnerable populations.
• The diaphragm's acceptability as a prevention tool requires further investigation.
• Understanding female condom (FC) use dynamics is key to effective sexual health strategies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the impact of a male and female condom intervention on FC use.
• To determine predictors of FC uptake among sexually active women in Zimbabwe.
• To assess the acceptability and consistency of FC use as an HIV/STI prevention method.

Main Methods:

• A 2-month prospective cohort study involving 379 sexually active women in Harare, Zimbabwe.
• Intervention focused on promoting the use of both male and female condoms.
• Data collected on reported FC use, preferences, and consistency compared to male condoms.

Main Results:

• Reported FC use surged from 1.1% at baseline to 70.6% at 2-month follow-up.
• Key predictors of FC uptake included interest, preference over male condoms, and perceived consistency.
• FCs were reported to protect 28.8% of sex acts in the preceding two weeks.

Conclusions:

• An intervention significantly increased female condom use in Harare, Zimbabwe.
• FCs represent a viable HIV/STI prevention option for some women with adequate access and education.
• Continued promotion and education are vital for expanding the use of FCs in sexual health programs.