The Female Condom: What We Have Learned Thus Far
Heather Cecil; Melissa, J. Perry; David, W. Seal; Steven, D. Pinkerton
Aids and Behavior 2(3): 241-256
1998
ISSN/ISBN: 1090-7165 DOI: 10.1023/a:1022141918771Document Number: 533766
High rates of sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), including HIV, and unplanned pregnancies persist in the United States. Women are more likely than men to be infected with an Std and to bear the burdens associated with unplanned pregnancies and with STD-associated complications. Condom use is advocated for sexually active individuals. However, for some persons condom use remains infrequent and inconsistent; this is particularly true for women, who may face substantial barriers (e. g., partner aggression) to enacting consistent condom use. The female condom is the only female-controlled barrier method currently available to protect women from STDs and unplanned pregnancies. In this paper, we review and summarize the literature on the female condom with regard to efficacy, use-effectiveness, and acceptability among potential and current users. In addition, we identify gaps in the literature and suggest paths for future research.