Despite Church Disapproval, Philippines Endorses Condoms

The Philippine Health Department will promote the use of condoms to prevent the spread of HIV/AIDS despite disapproval from the influential Roman Catholic church, an official said Thursday.

Despite disapproval from the influential Roman Catholic church, the Philippine Health Department will promote the use of condoms to prevent the spread of HIV/AIDS.

"The use of condoms to prevent the spread of HIV/AIDS is different from their use for birth control," Health Undersecretary Mario Villaverde told a media briefing.

Condoms and Contraception-Types-Proper Use-Storage-Advantages-Disadvantages-FAQ
Condoms are an effective form of contraception. Condoms have been used for the past 400 years. They have been one of the most popular methods of contraception since the 19th century.

"The church's position is detrimental to public health," he said.

Besides the use of condoms, which have 95 percent effectiveness in preventing HIV/AIDS, the government will also encourage education on the topic and promote measures to guard against the spread of sexually transmitted diseases, the official said.

Villaverde did not say how condoms would be promoted in a country where all forms of artificial contraception are strongly opposed by the church.

About AIDS/HIV - Prevention
Encyclopedia section of medindia explains in brief about the prevention for AIDS/HIV

Although rates of HIV/AIDS remain low in the Philippines, the level has recently gone up with an average of 29 cases detected each month in 2007 and 2008, compared with 20 cases a month in previous years.

Source-AFP
RAS/M

Female Condom
Animation on how to use Female condom and its advantages.

How to use a condom
This Interactive provides step by step visual aid showing how to correctly use condoms which can prevent transmission of HIV, other sexually transmitted diseases and pregnancy