RFI: Model of Vagina (3)
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Dear Mirriam,
There is a model of the vagina and cervix, that has been introduced to
support those clinic sites that are involved with the introduction of
the female condom. There is a national initiative for the introduction
of the female condom in selected clinics in all provinces, that is be-
ing undertaken by the National and Provincial HIV/AIDS and MCWH Direc-
torates, with technical support from the Reproductive Health Research
Unit.
This introduction is being supported by research so that better insight
can be obtained into the pattern of female condom use, the demand for
it and the sustainability. There is also a National Barrier Methods
Task Force convened by the Dept. of Health where provincial and na-
tional representatives meet to discuss this and other initiatives re-
lating to barrier methods, including male condom use.
The model itself was designed after a national DOH tender went out two
to three years ago. The model isn't ideal in that it is green and a bit
on the hard side, but it is being used for teaching in these selected
clinics. There are better models but they are substantially more expen-
sive. If you or any other Afro-Nets readers want more information
please contact:
Dikeledi Tshukudu at RHRU
on Tel: +27-11-933-1228.
She will be happy to advise further as she is co-ordinating this ini-
tiative. We would also be interested to hear from any other sites that
have introduced the female condom, that are not part of this national
initiative.
Best regards,
Helen Rees
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Helen Rees
Director
Reproductive Health Research Unit
Dept. Obstetrics and Gynaecology
Chris Hani Baragwanath Hospital
PO Bertsham 2013, South Africa
Tel: +27-11-933-1228
Fax: +27-11-933-1227
mailto:helen.rees@pixie.co.za
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