Burkina Faso has low CPR (5.8%), high TFR (6.8) and rising HIV/STI transmission. The female condom (FC) could play in important role in changing this situation, but there is limited information on its acceptability. This study explored the acceptability of the FC among male and female partners to help determine its role in the contraceptive method mix. A convenience sample was recruited from schools, youth centers, and other urban sites. Participants were counseled on how to use the FC, given six FCs, and asked to return for an interview after all six were used. After the interview they were given six more FCs and asked to return for a second interview. Focus group discussions were held to discuss experiences with the FC. A total of 261 participants were recruited, with 194 (74%) completing both interviews. Twenty percent used the FC only for contraception, 13% for HIV/STI protection, and 60% for dual protection. A significant difference (p=.05) existed between those who felt they had been counseled adequately with those who found counseling inadequate. Eighty percent who felt they had been counseled adequately said that they "liked the female condom a lot/somewhat" as compared to 57% of those who felt their counseling was inadequate. Often dismissed as an "unusable" and unpopular contraceptive method, among this group of Burkinabe youth, the FC was, with adequate counseling and use instructions, successfully accepted for dual protection, pregnancy prevention, and STI prevention.
Learning Objectives: At the conclusion of the session, the participant will be able to: 1. Describe the reproductive health indicators in Burkina Faso 2. Describe young people's attitudes towards the female condom 3. Identify key factors correlated with positive attitudes towards the female condom among young people
Keywords: Family Planning, Adolescents, International
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: None
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.