Walgreens Lauded for Stocking Female Condoms

For whatever reason, the female condom is one of the most expensive and least available condoms on the market. FC1 is made of polyurethane with an unfortunate crackle that might kill the mood for some of us. FC2, though, is made of a cheaper, less noisy material called synthetic nitrile. Both can be washed, sanitized and reused, though it's not recommended. Both are approved by the U.S. FDA but neither is usually found on the shelves beside their male counterparts. There is a third, latex version on the market, but it is not yet FDA approved.

“The female condom is one of the only forms of barrier contraception that allow women to be in control over their own sexual health, allowing them protection against unwanted pregnancies as well as HIV/AIDS and other sexually transmitted infections (STIs),” says Carole Brite, President and CEO of Planned Parenthood of Illinois. “It is a vital tool in the fight against HIV/AIDS.”

Walgreens seems to agree. They've put FC2 on their shelves in 400 of their locations. And they're even keeping the price much lower than what FC1 has generally cost.

“Limited access to female condoms has long been a barrier to use. The Chicago Female Condom Campaign commends Walgreens for making a business decision that will help women and men across the U.S. access the prevention tools they need to stay healthy,” said Jessica Terlikowski, co-founder and chairperson of the Chicago Female Condom Campaign.