For the first time, the country celebrates the National Day for the Promotion of the use of male and female condoms and lubricants. As part of this celebration, the authorities are seeking to promote this barrier method that protects against Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STDs).
Data indicate that in Costa Rica, 73.7% of men and 37.7% of women have used the male condom as a contraceptive method, but only 18.3% of men and 11.9% of women say they have always used it.
In order to provide more protection mechanisms to women, the Ministry of Health seeks to empower female condom use among the population. Although since 2011 the health centers of the Costa Rican Social Security Fund (CCSS) begun to introduce it as part of a research process, they do not have it within the range of contraceptive methods.
In Costa Rica a validation process was carried out with women from Goichoechea and Upala in 2012. They were given female condoms and taught how to use them, the evaluation of the experience was positive, since 72% of the users said that would be willing to use it as a regular method of contraception.
Evelyn Durán of the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) explained that there are five compelling reasons for women to use the female condom:
1. If the female condom (like the male condom) is used in all sexual relations from the beginning to the end, its effectiveness is very high, approximately 98%.
2. It allows greater autonomy for women.
The negotiation of condom use is a topic that has generated a lot of discussion. Women have many times believe they cannot negotiate with their partners due to myths around it,”
said Durán.
3. It can be placed up to 8 hours before intercourse.
4. Placement does not depend on man or erection.
5. Women must self-explore in order to use.
To put it on, they must know their anatomy, which is not properly known in the country. For example, many women believe that they urinate through their vaginal opening […] They should know where to place it, so this improves their autonomy,”
said Durán.
The Ministry of Health has already approved the health registry and the CCSS has the complete technical file and the acquisition process is underway. Health services are expected to provide this method for users by next year. To this end, officials are being trained to know how it is used and how to offer it within the range of contraceptive methods.