THE redesigned female condom is now softer to the touch, but still stronger than the male condom, the manufacturer says.

FC2, as the new condom is called, is made from synthetic nitrile compared to the previous FC female condom that was made of polyurethane. The material of the new condom, said the manufacturer, was changed to improve affordability, while maintaining the high quality, reliability and features of the one it replaced.

"The FC2 has been reported to be less noisy and its mass production will prove less expensive, therefore causing the existing retail cost to fall in order to promote affordability, which was one of the obstacles affecting the popularity of FC," Dr Olivia McDonald, executive director of the National Family Planning Board (NFPB), told the Observer.

"The difference between the two is the material from which they are made. Polyurethane is a form of plastic .certainly when you feel both condoms, the FC2 is much softer feel."

The NFPB said that getting both genders to appreciate the female condom will rid the product of some of the negative stigmas attached to it from its inception. The condom was associated with prostitutes and there was a 'bad girl' image of women who dared to use it.

The NFPB is optimistic, however, that the FC2 will help to demystify those myths and that there will be widespread use.
The NFPB, in collaboration with UNFPA, will be conducting training workshops regarding the new female condom before it is distributed to health centres across the island.

Highlights of FC2:
. FC2 has a shelf life of five years, in comparison to the male condom which is good for four years.

. Provides women and men with an additional choice to protect themselves from both unplanned pregnancy and the transmission of STIs, including HIV/AIDS.

. Protects the vagina, cervix and external genitalia, affording extensive barrier protection.

. Loosely lines the vagina; it is not tight or constricting.

. Has no serious side effects associated with its use.

. Can be inserted before intercourse and is not dependent on the male erection, so it will not interrupt sexual spontaneity.

. Does not need to be removed immediately after ejaculation.

. Does not require a prescription or the intervention of a health-care provider.

. Is recommended to be used only once.

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