FPA responds to NICE draft guidance on condoms

Sexual health charity FPA has welcomed new draft guidance from NICE (The National Institute for Health and Care Excellence) on increasing the provision of condoms to help reduce rates of sexually transmitted infections (STIs).

Natika H Halil said: “Using condoms is absolutely key to tackling the transmission of STIs particularly among young people and adults who we know are disproportionately affected by infections.

“However, as well as making condoms more easily and widely available, it’s also really important to back that up with education and support and to think about what barriers may exist to people actually choosing to use them.

“This should start with statutory sex and relationships education in schools so young people are equipped with the skills and confidence they need to have those important conversations about safer sex with partners.”

FPA will be highlighting the importance of overcoming barriers to condom use and tackling myths and misconceptions around STIs during Sexual Health Week, from 12-18 September.