Deputy Programme Manager of the National AIDS/STI Control Programme, Dr Anthony Ashinyo, has disclosed that nearly 50,000 female condoms have expired due to low usage among the public.
In an interview with the Ghana News Agency, Dr. Ashinyo said that the National AIDS Control Programme (NACP) purchased large consignments of female condoms to promote safer sex for women, but low patronage left many unused and eventually expired.
“We procured large quantities of female condoms in the past, but people simply weren’t using them. Eventually,causing expiration.These days, we only buy them in small amounts because demand remains very low,” he stated.
Further, he attributed the low uptake to prevailing social and cultural perceptions that discourage women from using female condoms. According to him, many women view them as a sign of mistrust or promiscuity.
In addition, raised concerns about the improper use of female condoms, mentioning that some women repurpose them by removing the rims to make bangles or clothes, while others complain of discomfort or excessive stimulation during use.
SOURCE: Adomonline
