Knowledge and attitudes of women attending the antenatal care clinic at Piggs Peak Government Hospital as regards the female condom in HIV prevention

[摘要] ENGLISH ABSTRACT: Introduction: The female condom is the only currently available method that offers women partial control in protecting themselves from HIV infection. Despite the availability of this condom, its uptake among women has remained disappointing. This study was an attempt to understand why this is the case and to come up with recommendations to improve uptake of the female condom at Piggs Peak Hospital antenatal care department in Swaziland.Methodology: A qualitative research study was conducted using in depth face-to-face interviews and a focus group discussion. The target population consisted of clients visiting the antenatal care clinic at Piggs Peak Hospital.Results: Respondents were aware of the female condom and its effectiveness in preventing HIV infection, other sexually transmitted diseases and as a contraceptive procedure. Acceptance of the female condom was high among respondents, though uptake was low. Some of the reasons that were mentioned as resulting in the poor uptake of the female condom included lack of training on use and little marketing of the device. The design of the current female condom was found to be a major concern for those who refused to accept the female condom.Implications: There is a need for the government of Swaziland and its partners to reconsider their strategy as regards the promotion of the female condom in the country. Educating the general public about the condom and training them how to use it is vital. People need to know why they should use the female condom. Its advantages to women should be fully explained. The cost of the female condom also needs to be addressed with a view of having the female condom freely and widely available.

[发布机构] Stellenbosch University