Session 1: HIV Prevention

Comprehensive Condom Programming

In this session, we will discuss the importance of practicing preventive health behaviors, the universal standard precautions to prevent occupational exposure to bloodborne pathogens, including HIV and how to treat exposure with post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP).

This final section will cover the Comprehensive Condom Programming in Zimbabwe.

Learning Objectives

By the end of this session, you will be able to:

• Define Comprehensive Condom Programming (CCP).
• Describe the rationale for CCP.
• Identify key pointers on how to be strategic in CCP using available evidence.

Learning Activities

• Comprehensive Condom Programming (CCP) (10 min)

  Watch this video on the Comprehensive Condom Programming in Zimbabwe.
• Strategic CCP (5 min)

  Condom programming will not have the same impact in different epidemic scenarios. Below are key pointers on how to be strategic in CCP using available evidence:

  • Maximise condom use where most sexual transmission of HIV is occurring: target appropriately.
  • Prioritise condoms where evidence shows potential to achieve results: high level of consistent correct condom use.
  • Use appropriate strategies to reach different populations. Ensure sufficient and reliable supply of quality both male and female condoms.
  • Create demand for condom use through education campaigns via posters, TV, radio, and newspaper ads, and roadshows.
  • Understand and be realistic regarding barriers to condom use.
  • Develop intensive, closely monitored and evaluated strategies to overcome barriers to condom use.
  • Empower women to negotiate for safer sex.
• Knowledge Check (5 min)

  1Which of the following can pass through a latex condom?

  1. HIV
  2. Gonorrhea
  3. Semen
  4. None of the above

  Clear Feedback

  D is correct. Nothing can pass through latex condoms when they are used correctly. Studies have shown that condoms do not have pores big enough for HIV or other sexually transmitted infections to travel through.

  2Do condoms provide total protection against all sexually transmitted diseases?

  1. Yes
  2. No

  Clear Feedback

  No. Condoms provide protection against many STIs such as HIV, however, there are some STIs such as genital warts and herpes that can be passed through skin contact even when a condom is used.

  3What would be safest when having sexual intercourse?

  1. To use 2 male condoms at the same time
  2. Not to use a condom
  3. To use a female and male condom at the same time
  4. To use a condom (either male or female)

  Clear Feedback

  D is correct. Using one condom is the safest (either a male or female condom). Using more than one condom can cause friction, which will break the condom.

  4What can you use to make a male condom more slippery?

  1. Baby lotion
  2. Cream
  3. Water-based lubricants
  4. Oil

  Clear Feedback

  C is correct. Always use a water-based lubricant with latex condoms, as oil-based lubricants will cause the latex to break.

• Key Points (5 min)
  • Condoms provide dual protection by preventing both pregnancy and STI/HIV.
  • Both female and male condoms are equally effective when used consistently and correctly.
  • Women should be empowered to negotiate for condom use.
  • Condoms should be accessible and available all the times in all health centers and at strategic points in the communities.