Condom distribution

Condom distribution
As discussed in chapter one, the lack of condom use is an important factor in HIV transmission
within IDUs. Many IDUs practice unsafe sexual activity, rarely using condoms.
Previous programmes had often preached abstinence from sexual intercourse. This option is
important, however it does not provide any information or support for the large number of
young people who are already sexually active. Strategies must stress the importance of regular
condom use, with regular as well as with irregular partners.
Condoms are not always as available as one would expect, and financial barriers also exist. To
promote safe sex, condom distribution can help. It can reduce the occasions where an IDU may
not have any sexual protection available. Condoms can be distributed together with injection
kits or with HIV and AIDS educational material by outreach workers. Also, together with condom
distribution, IDUs can be told about the importance of condom use as well as shown how to
use condoms properly.
Condom availability is especially important for sexually active youth, for youth that do not
know where to get condoms and for youth that can not afford to buy condoms.