Female Condoms To Be Released in China

By Margaret Lyons in News on Sep 29, 2004 7:35PM

The Chicago-based Female Health Company struck a deal with Beijing Zizhu Pharmaceutical Co to distribute female condoms in China. Who knew that the "first and only female-initiated barrier method" called Chicago home? We sure didn't. The "letter of understanding" between the two companies contained provisions to make the condoms available commercially and through aid organizations. They also agreed to "determine the various aspects of market needs, acceptability and education outreach programs" needed to launch the female condom effectively.

Beijing Zizhu Pharmaceutical Company is the largest producer of hormone contraceptives in China, and according to an FHC press release, their board recently vowed to distribute products that protect against HIV/AIDS. Of the estimated 40 million people infected with HIV, 1 million live in China. The Chinese government only recently began addressing the crisis, and in 2003 increased its budget for HIV/AIDS prevention and treatment initiatives from $12.09 million to $47.16 million. Still, experts fear that 10 million Chinese could be infected by 2010 unless substantial gains are made in education and prevention.

Here's hoping female condoms are more popular in China than they are here—we've only ever really heard them mentioned as footnotes in the vast tomes of the protect-your-chotch industry. But seriously, when it comes to protecting yourself (and your chotch), remember that female condoms are a safe and effective way to do so.