Knowledge, attitude and practices regarding condom use among women prisoners: the prevention of STD/HIV in the prison setting

The objective of this study was to evaluate the knowledge, attitude and practices of women prisoners regarding the use of female and male condoms as a means of prevention against STD/HIV. This quantitative and evaluative Knowledge, Attitude and Practice (KAP) study included 155 female prisoners. Data collection was performed between January and March 2010 at the State of Ceará Women's Penitentiary. Although the women had heard of and/or knew about the purposes of the use of condoms, only 35 (22.6%) had appropriate knowledge regarding male condoms, and 11 (7.1%) in regards to the use of female condoms. Their attitudes were less favorable regarding oral sex. Appropriate practice was not significantly representative, particularly regarding the female condom. Homo/bisexuality, gender issues, lack of knowledge, and the difficult access to condoms are obstacles that must be considered in the promotion of sexual health in the studied group.