Myths, Misperceptions and Fears: Addressing Condom Use Barriers

This booklet is about factual information used to foster a positive attitude towards condom use. The message is directly focused on responding to common, recurring myths, misperceptions, and fears related to condoms and condom use. It is written to provide accurate evidence-based information to support the fact that consistent use of male or female condoms is highly effective at preventing unintended pregnancy, the transmission of HIV, and other sexually transmitted infections.

The first section is a short booklet for service providers/health promoters. The second section contains a collection of Fact Sheets that can be shared directly with the community or adapted for use as local health promotion material.

SECTION I:

1. Condom Quality Assurance
2. Characteristics of Condoms – Size, Smell, and Shape
   
3. Sexual Pleasure
   
4. Health Concerns
   
5. Social and Moral Issues
   
6. Other Issues
   
7. Female Condoms
   

SECTION II: User Fact Sheets

1. Effectiveness of Condoms in Preventing Sexually Transmitted Infections including HIV
   
2. How to Avoid Latex Condom Breakage
   
3. Know the Facts: Be Prepared!
   
4. How to Use a Latex Condom
   
5. The Female Condom
   
6. Condom Bibliography