Female Condoms

The female condom is intended to serve a dual role, offering protection from pregnancy and sexually transmitted infection (STI). Many women's advocates and policy-makers see the female condom as a significant new alternative that women can use to better protect themselves against HIV/STIs.

However, some researchers and policymakers are cautious about committing to wide-scale introduction of the method. Concerns include whether the device is too expensive, should be used more than once, will replace rather than complement male condom use, will be accepted beyond an initial novelty interest, and is effective in typical use.