Culture and condoms: a review of research literature

Research into the use of condoms rarely explains how cultural factors influence beliefs and behaviours. Condoms are researched in functional, rather than cultural terms. Ignorance concerning the mechanisms of conception and contraception remains a fundamental concern, even among comparatively well educated populations. Men's perceived ambivalence to the regular use of condoms, and women's perceived stigma in obtaining and carrying condoms is a limiting factor to the more widespread use of barrier contraception. The etiquette barriers associated with discussing contraceptives, between partners and between couples and health care workers is an issue that extends across cultural boundaries. There is merit in understanding contraception from a cultural start point. This may involve investing more time in orientating to the culture before discussing the contraceptive.