Abstract:
BACKGROUND : Despite the acceptability of the Female Condom2 (FC2) as a contraceptive method
by some women, it remains inaccessible and unavailable to the majority of women because of
affordability, training, distribution and marketing strategies. The FC2 affords women dual
protection and the option to negotiate safe sex.
OBJECTIVE : This paper explores and describes the perspective of the healthcare providers
regarding accessibility and availability of the FC2 as a contraceptive method in the Tshwane
district.
METHOD : The study used an explorative, descriptive, and qualitative design. Data were
collected from 26 healthcare providers who were purposively selected. In-depth face-to-face
interviews were conducted with these healthcare providers in the Tshwane district. Tesch’s
method of open coding was used for data analysis.
RESULTS : Two main themes emerged, namely, the availability of the FC2 and the knowledge of
the healthcare providers. The findings of this study indicated that the availability of the FC2
remains a challenge because of factors such as lack of affordability, inefficient procurement
and lack of distribution measures. The condoms are also not available at strategic points so as
to ensure accessibility. Insufficient knowledge amongst healthcare providers was described as
a barrier which affects the quality of training of the service users.
CONCLUSIONS : It is evident that the FC2 is not yet available in all healthcare settings, therefore
strategies to safeguard accessibility and availability of the FC2 as a contraceptive method are
recommended.
