A Water Leak Hang Test on a Random Sample of Condoms in Nnewi, South-East Nigeria

Abstract

Background: Over the years, there has been frequent concern on the use of male latex condoms because of its dual functions of preventing unintended pregnancy and sexually transmitted infections in the society. However, their use is limited in part by questions about their performance which may be influenced by many factors including its production qualities. In Nigeria, all condoms in use are imported and as such greater effort needs to be applied in quality assurance of the numerous sources. Objectives: To estimate the rate of condom leakage among the available male latex condoms in Nigerian market and compare it with results published from other countries. Methods: A water leak hang test on a random sample of available brands of male latex condom in Nigerian health shops was done. Six commonly available male latex condoms were selected and labeled A I AII B C D & E. Fifty (50mls) of water was instilled into the unused condom and sequentially hung up for gravity effect. The primary outcome measure was the leakage of water in the condom within 2 minutes. Analysis was done using Epi-info 2008 version 5.3.1. Results: A total of 495 male latex condoms were used in the trial. All the condoms are expected to expire in at least 24 months. Of this number, 25 condoms leaked water, giving the estimated condom leakage rate of 5.05% in Nnewi South-East Nigeria. Conclusion: The leakage rate for male latex condom was very high in Nnewi, Nigeria based on this estimate. This poses a reproductive/public health concern with respect to prevention of unintended pregnancy and other preventable Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs). Condom studies are therefore a high priority in Nigeria given the HIV/AIDs, hepatitis and sexually transmitted disease high prevalence.