Abstract
Previous research on the use of personal lubricants for sexual intercourse is limited and has primarily focused on condom compatibility and breakage, with only recent limited assessment of lubricant safety and possible epidemiologic implications. This article discusses the global evidence of lubricant compatibility with latex condoms and biological safety of lubricants, as well as documentation of lubricant use and current guidelines for HIV prevention programming in Africa. Data on lubricant compatibility with condoms are less available than commonly realized, and many lubricant products may not have been thoroughly tested for safety due to flexible regulatory environments. Recent laboratory and study findings from microbicides research also suggest that some water-based lubricants may have safety issues. Some African populations are using several types of lubricants, especially oil-based petroleum jellies, and receive little evidence-based guidance. More research is needed from the medical community to guide prevention programming.
Highlights
Among the vast catalogue of African condom legends, this author’s favourite is a mythological experiment heard in Malawi 15 years ago
There is another hypothesis to the piri-piri experiment the student did not consider: Did the hot sauce itself weaken or damage the condom, facilitating penetration of the latex barrier? Could it be possible that some myths in Africa result not of the condom, but of the condiments that are applied?
Has the potential epidemiologic impact of lubricant use in Africa Á condom or no condom Á been adequately assessed? Towards answering this question, it is worthwhile to review the global evidence regarding the effect of lubricants on condom structural integrity and the biological safety of lubricant use, as well as the prevalence of lubricant use and current guidance for prevention programming in Africa
Summary
Among the vast catalogue of African condom legends, this author’s favourite is a mythological experiment heard in Malawi 15 years ago. A young student reported that pouring piri-piri sauce Á a popular spicy food sauce in Malawi Á on a condom-sheathed penis would induce a burning sensation; proof that condoms have holes in them and cannot be trusted. This is symptomatic of most condom myths in Africa, which hypothesize inherent physical flaws in condoms themselves. Substances used during sexual intercourse can be applied for the purpose of lubricating the penis and the vagina or rectum in which it is inserted This eases discomfort that may arise from dry friction during sex, and can increase pleasure or enjoyment. Has the potential epidemiologic impact of lubricant use in Africa Á condom or no condom Á been adequately assessed? Towards answering this question, it is worthwhile to review the global evidence regarding the effect of lubricants on condom structural integrity and the biological safety of lubricant use, as well as the prevalence of lubricant use and current guidance for prevention programming in Africa
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