Can you provide a few tips on how to negotiate FC2 Female Condom® use with a person who is not ready to use it?
In any sexual relationship there should be communication about the prevention of STIs, HIV and unintended pregnancy. In relationships where sexual issues are not discussed or are difficult to discuss, the person who wants to initiate a discussion on prevention needs to consider where and when to do it. Each person needs to find his or her moment when they feel comfortable to discuss the issue of prevention.
There are five questions to consider before discussing the use of condoms, both male and female, with your partner. These questions are:
1.What do you want to discuss/negotiate? The discussion could be either the prevention of STIs, including HIV, or the prevention of unintended pregnancy.
2.Who do you want to discuss/negotiate with? Condom use can be discussed with a spouse or any sexual partners that you may have.
3.Why do you want to discuss/negotiate? People discuss the use of condoms to protect themselves and their partners from the transmission of STIs including HIV. Some couples feel that it is important to plan and space the birth of their children.
4.When do you want to discuss /negotiate? You have to decide when the best time is to bring up the subject of protection. Will you do it the moment you see your partner again or wait till you are both relaxed and open to the discussion? Ideally you should do it before the next sex act.
5.How will I discuss/negotiate? Below are a few helpful tips on discussing FC2 use with your partner: ·If you sense that your partner is reluctant to use a condom (male or female), perhaps begin by telling him about the possible risks involved in having sex without a condom. ·You might need to tell him a little about STIs, HIV and how these are transmitted. ·Some women convince their partner to use FC2 by saying it enhances pleasure during intercourse. ·Others mention that FC2 is an imported and a special condom, and use this as a negotiation technique. ·Some women involve their partner in inserting the condom in their vagina. This can make sex fun and more erotic. ·Some women refuse to have sex without condoms. ·Some women use FC2 without informing their partner. ·Some women tell their partners that they do not need to wear a male condom as FC2 allows couples to share responsibility for protecting themselves. ·Some women use information on condoms that they receive from health care providers to help them negotiate condom use.
These are some of the strategies women have used to negotiate FC2 use but we believe that all women, including you, have their own unique skills to ensure protection for themselves and their partner.