Acceptability and Accessibility of the Female Condom in Kenya: Perceptions and Factors Influencing Utilization of the Female Condom in Kiambu County, Kenya

Available literature indicates that the history of condoms goes back several centuries ago. For most of their history, condoms have been used both as a method of birth control, and as a protective measure against sexually transmitted diseases. Condoms have been made from a variety of materials; prior to the 19th century, chemically treated linen and animal tissue (intestine or bladder) are the best documented varieties. Rubber condoms gained popularity in the mid-19th century, and in the early 20th century major advances were made in manufacturing techniques. Advocacy of the female condom emerged in the context of growing evidence that heterosexual intercourse was placing women at increased risk of HIV infection. Acceptability of the Female Condom in developing countries remains a controversial issue with little or no evidence on utilization of this device by Women of reproductive age. This publication explores utilization, perceptions and factors that influence acceptability and accessibility of the Female Condom in Kiambu County in Kenya.