Preliminary comparison of the polyurethane female condom with the latex male condom in Kenya.

A survey of 48 female volunteers recruited from 3 private gynecology-obstetrics clinics in Nairobi Kenya revealed preliminary support for the female condom as an acceptable family planning method. In the studys first phase women were provided with 2 male and 2 female condoms to be used in the ensuing 3 weeks. In the second phase they were supplied with 4 more female condoms. A total of 113 female condoms were used during the 2 study phases. Overall 84% of women expressed favorable reactions to the female condom and 55% indicated they would use this method in the future were it available. In the first phase 39% stated they preferred the female to the male condom while 37% liked the 2 condoms about the same; all 12 women who completed the second phase preferred the female condom suggesting that use becomes easier and more comfortable with time. Although 55% of male partners were reported to like the female condom the same or better than the male condom and 39% liked it less; male partner disapproval was a major factor in study discontinuation. Enhanced enjoyment of sex protection against pregnancy and sexually transmitted diseases and female control were the most frequently cited positive attributes of the female condom; the devices large size messiness and reduced sensation were its least liked characteristics. Insertion difficulties and discomfort caused by the devices outer ring were common. There were 3 incidents (2.7%) of condom breakage and 11 (10%) of condom displacement during intercourse. More research on acceptability cost-effectiveness and safety is required before the female condom is slated for large-scale distribution in Kenya.