After section 377, India readying for gay condoms

Earlier last month homosexuals across the country celebrated a year of freedom, since the Delhi High Court legalized gay rights Sec 377 under Indian Penal Code and decriminalize homosexuality. And now they have another reason to smile.

'First ever' gay condoms in India
National AIDS Control Organization (NACO) conducted a survey in April 2010 to analyze the sexual problems encountered by high-risk men who have sex with men (MSM) group in Mumbai and Pune.

In the survey, it was revealed that many gay men don't use condoms since it causes discomfort during intercourse.

NACO, alongwith condom manufacturer's Family Planning Promotion Trust is therefore coming up with 'gay condom' to check the rising occurrences of AIDS among homosexuals.

These condoms, named as 'Spice-Up,' will be extra-lubricated, comfortable, easy to use, and compatible to their other needs.

"We are still in the process of developing the product. As far as the costing goes, we are still unsure if it must be sold in the socially marketed category or in genera one. However, this concern is secondary to product development," informs a source from the company's family planning trust.

According to data provided by NACO, currently, more than 19,000 people in Mumbai and Pune are from MSM category.

"We want to bring about a behavioral change in the habits of these men, which is difficult because they are a closed group and do not respond well to advice from outsiders. We have, therefore, roped in some peer leaders to carry our message across and hope this will work," revealed the company's executive.

Indian Council of Medical Research plans to introduce condom which will benefit gays as well as straight couples.

Citing reason for manufacturing a dual condom, an ICMR official had said in April, "The high percentage of HIV and AIDS cases is mostly due to practice of anal sex and the present condom does not give protection."

Feedback
Experts from the medical fraternity believe that it will be a hit product in the Indian market.

Sexologist Dr Prakash Kothari says, "This product will be welcomed by homosexual men as well as couples who engage in anal sex.”

"Sometimes during lovemaking, the lubricating gets messy and anal sex can get painful. A condom with extra lubrication will bring securities to such couples," he added.

The manufacturers are not sure if these condoms will be available alongside the other existing condoms or it will be sold in targeted locations only.