Female Condoms, the name sounds familiar but highly under-appreciated. It has been a long while since the Female Condoms had been introduced in the market under the brand name "Velvet". However, their use has been noted to be less than 1% of all the condoms that are out for sale today in the world. Social acceptability of this innovation, which is a potential alternative to the male condoms, or simply condoms as we call them today, is far too less.

Another reason for the social status is the name. Female condoms are not intended just for the females. It was an idea to lower the risk of STD's in gay people. The acceptance of such an orientation in the society is far too low in India too.

Velvet has sold only 36,000 units in the last year while the conventional condom sale could be at least 100 times higher. HLL Lifecare along with the British Female Health Company has been into the production of the female condoms since six years. They are the only female condoms approved for sale in India by the World Health Organization too.

The HLL Lifecare Chairman and Managing Director M. Ayyappan spoke on the eve of the Global Female Condom day saying that the company would make efforts to increase the awareness among the people and promote the product with roadshows, seminars and special stalls.

"Now our job is to hold awareness campaigns that will highlight this product. We are basically looking to empower women because they have to take the lead. And we will do it," Ayyappan said.

Today a packet of Velvet that contains three pieces costs Rs.100 in the open market and HLL gets Rs.24 per piece for its supplies to NACO.
(AW- Anil)