“We didn’t have time, we were in the middle of things, it’s not fun… what a passion killer”, these explanatory excuses can now be eradicated by simply inserting a FEMDOM prior to sexual intercourse.
Great excitement abounded at the introduction of grape scented male condoms (other flavours to follow) that the Western Cape Government Health provides free of charge to all patients. While male condoms remain popular and enjoy a reasonable amount of acceptance among sexually active people, FEMDOMS or female condoms are relatively new.
The introduction of an alternative barrier method that women can make use of, offers especially young women the opportunity to ensure that they stay STI free and prevent unplanned pregnancies. The department remains concerned at the high numbers of teenage pregnancies that are being seen at our facilities. Although it remains the safest and best option not to engage in sexual activity at a young age, the reality is that a growing number of school going women do fall pregnant as a result of unsafe sexual practice. Femdom offers protection from STIs and unplanned babies. All clinics in the Western Cape supply a variety of birth control methods free of charge to all women.
Western Cape Minister of Health, Dr Normafrench Mbombo stated, “The Western Cape Government encourages the use of protection by females during sexual activity. It is important to protect oneself in order to prevent the spread of STIs and HIV/Aids, and prevent unplanned pregnancies.”
Female condoms were made available for the first time in 2008/9, not only as a method to ensure effective barrier protection for women against HIV and other STI’s but also as an added birth control option. The previous condoms, or Femdoms as they were often referred to, although popular, were quite tricky to insert, as they fitted in a similar manner to the diaphragm, a form of birth control that perhaps only some of our more mature clients will remember!
Advances have since been made in the female condom industry. The newly available female condom, no longer has the hard upper ring, which hampered use, rather a small circular sponge is now being used to ensure correct placement. The condom is inserted using the tampon technique, making it easier and more comfortable to use.
There is however some similarities to the more regularly used male condom;
One of the main differences between male and female condoms is that women can place the condom well before sexual intercourse takes place. This offers women at risk of unsafe sexual practices an opportunity to protect themselves.
Some handy tips:
The new design together with the improved fit and easy to understand instructions makes using the female condom a more exciting experience.
Visit a clinic closer to you for more information.
Jo-Anne Otto
Principal Communications Officer: Cape Winelands District
WESTERN CAPE GOVERNMENT HEALTH
Tel: +27 23 348 8100
Cell: 072 8080 106
E-mail: Jo-Anne.Otto@westerncape.gov.za