Sunday, November 18, 2007

The VA w.o.w. Condom Feminine


The VA w.o.w. Condom Feminine (or VA for short) has been distributed as part of HIV prevention efforts in South Africa since 2004. More recently it has become available in Brazil, Indonesia and through government clinics in Portugal. Having gained the “CE mark” for European marketing, its manufacturer plans to bring it to shops and clinics in the UK, Germany and some other European countries by the end of 2007. One more trial is needed before the product can gain FDA approval for sale in the USA.


Like most male condoms, the VA is made of latex. When not stretched it is much shorter than the FC – around 9 cm (3.5 inches) – though it is highly elastic. It has a rounded triangular frame at the open end and a sponge inside the closed end, which helps to anchor it inside the vagina.


The VA is lubricated and does not contain spermicide. Oil-based lubricants should not be used with this female condom as they can damage latex.

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