The National Family Planning Program of India is trying to increase the acceptance of condoms. Despite awareness campaigns, the use of condoms is low. The reasons are many. At times, the condom is not available when needed. Another deterrent to using a condom is that it can seem expensive. But even if we keep the cost factor aside, people have many myths about male condoms. People believe that condoms take away from the experience of intimacy. While an effective contraception method, many feel that condoms are uncomfortable. Yet, most would agree that we cannot do away with condoms.
Condoms are viable and safe methods of contraception. In a country with high HIV infection rates, condoms promote safe sex. Apart from unwanted pregnancies, condoms protect sex workers from STDs. However, the long-standing myths around condoms remain a deterrent. Also, anti-counterfeit experts see one more issue with Condoms.
Fake condoms reaffirm all the myths about condoms. Fake condoms are often made in unhygienic conditions and may be unsafe. Counterfeit in condom making is a risk to public health. The substandard materials used in fake condoms can make them pretty much useless.
Fake Condoms are a Thing. Here is Why:
1. Cheap Condoms are Tempting
Fake condoms are not made from good-quality latex. The substandard materials used in fake condoms reduce the manufacturing cost. Is it not tempting to buy a cheap condom? After all, it is a one-time-use product! But next time you find a cheap condom, remember to check its authenticity. Fake condoms are a thing!
2. Condoms are a ‘Quick Buy’
Celebrities endorsing condom brands is a recent phenomenon. Today, some condom brands have created a reputation for themselves. Yet, marketing is difficult for condom brands. As experts in anti-counterfeit say, “In India, a condom is still a hushed product. People want to buy it in no time and get out of the store. Many a time, you find people buying condoms from shady unauthorized sellers. When you are in a hurry to buy a product and use it immediately, you do not have the time to think about its authenticity. “So fake condoms enjoy a safe escape.
3. Difficult to Identify Fake Condoms
Even genuine condoms can fail. If used incorrectly, condoms can fail. Many believe that condoms are uncomfortable. Fake condoms of poor quality perpetuate this myth. Fake condoms are often greased with vegetable oil. Fake condoms are not only ineffective and uncomfortable but also dangerous. But people may attribute the side-effects of a fake condom to the myths about condoms. Lack of awareness about condoms makes it difficult for customers to identify fakes.
Online pharmacies and e-commerce websites are adding to the problem of fake condoms. Unsuspecting customers buy fake condoms from unverified sellers.
Why Do We Need Anti-Counterfeit Methods to Stop Fake Condoms?
1. Health Consequences:
Condoms carry the promise of safe sex. Fake condoms are beyond ineffective contraceptives. Along with unwanted pregnancies, fake condoms do little to check STDs. Also, condoms are often used on medical equipment that aids in internal check-ups. A fake condom on a sonography catheter can have disastrous consequences. When we look at condoms beyond physical relations, we see the size of the problem. Right from preventing STDs to unwanted pregnancies, male condoms save lives. So the issue of fake condoms needs to be addressed.
2. Brand Reputation:
Today we have brands running awareness campaigns for promotions. Celebrity endorsements are a thing. Fake condoms lead to the loss of loyal customers, brand image, and revenue.
3. An Impetus to Increase Usage:
The condom market in India is stagnant. Globally, the market share for condoms is around 8.5 billion dollars. Despite the high population, the market for condoms in India is at 200 million dollars as of 2020. In a country where topics like sex and pleasure are shunned, responsible branding is important. Condom companies are now positioning themselves as agents of social change in India. Awareness campaigns of major condom brands go beyond sales. Using methods to prevent fake condoms from entering the supply chain is important. Technology for preventing counterfeit will add to the success of awareness campaigns. Also, anti-counterfeit technology can increase condom acceptability.
Anti-counterfeit technology has come a long way. Codes and serialization methods integrate with packaging. Blockchain and track and trace technology can plug the gaps in the supply chain. Easy-to-scan and use technology can help customers identify fake condoms. When backed with anti-counterfeit technology, awareness campaigns by condom manufacturers can lead to significant social changes.
Removing the taboo around condoms is the need of the hour. Anti-counterfeit technology to stop fake condoms can speed up the process. It is time for socially responsible brands to look at anti-counterfeit technology to protect their customers from fake condoms.
FAQs
1. Why are counterfeit condoms more prevalent in the market compared to other counterfeit goods?
Counterfeit condoms are more prevalent because of their low production cost, high demand, and the discreet nature of purchase. Buyers often prioritize convenience and price over quality, making it easy for counterfeit products to infiltrate the market without scrutiny.
Q2. How can consumers ensure they are purchasing authentic condoms?
Consumers can ensure authenticity by purchasing condoms from reputable stores or verified online platforms. Additionally, they should check for secure packaging, manufacturer details, and authentication features like QR codes or holograms that some brands now include.
Q3. What are the broader implications of counterfeit condoms on public health?
Counterfeit condoms pose severe public health risks, including the failure to prevent STDs, unwanted pregnancies, and infections from using unsafe materials. Beyond personal consequences, they can undermine public health initiatives aimed at controlling HIV/AIDS and promoting family planning.
Q4. How can the government or regulatory bodies contribute to tackling counterfeit condoms?
Regulatory bodies can mandate stricter quality checks for condom manufacturers, impose harsher penalties on counterfeiters, and educate the public about the risks of using fake products. They can also collaborate with brands to promote anti-counterfeit technologies and awareness campaigns.
Q5. What role can technology play in curbing the spread of counterfeit condoms?
Technology such as blockchain, track-and-trace systems, and unique serialization codes can secure the supply chain, making it easier for both manufacturers and consumers to identify genuine products. Smartphone-enabled verification systems can empower users to check the authenticity of products in real-time.
