EXTRA: Lagos residents alarmed as price of condoms rises by over 100%

Some residents of Lagos have raised concerns about unsafe sex amid the rising cost of condoms in the country.

NAN reports that many are concerned the trend will lead to both unsafe sex and unintended pregnancies among citizens.

There are different types and brands of condoms and the best are often determined by their quality, durability, comfort, and protection.

Some popular condom brands among Nigerians include Durex, Fiesta, Kiss, Rough Rider, and Gold Circle.

However, checks at some pharmacies show that prices increased by 50 to 200 percent when compared to 2023 rates.

Some Lagos residents, NAN reports, say access to affordable contraceptives is critical in ensuring the health of partners, protection from sexually transmitted infections (STIs), and planning the desired pregnancy

Felix Atuche, a banker, argued that the increasing price of condoms made him resort to the withdrawal method, hoping it wouldn’t lead to pregnancy.

“We got married two months ago and my wife and I are currently undertaking our master’s degree. So for us, pregnancy has to wait for about two years,” the banker said.

“I usually use the Durex Fetherlite Elite condom because it heightens the feelings between partners, just like skin to skin.

“I used to buy the pack for N1,900 but now it goes for N2,500 to N3,500, depending on the pharmacy I buy from.

“The cost is getting unaffordable for me because of the number of packs I need.

“I resorted to the withdrawal method but my wife has been avoiding sex with me because she’s scared of getting pregnant.”

Monisola Ajayi, a businesswoman, said she prioritised her sexual health by ensuring she used female condoms during intercourse.

“A few years ago, I contracted STIs from my husband. I got treated and forgave him, but the incident left a scar on my heart,” she said.

“So, I always ensure I use a condom to protect myself. Female condoms are available but more expensive than the male condoms.

“Ten pieces of Fc2 vaginal condom go for over N4,200 now, before it was around N2,000. If I don’t have a condom, then no show for oga except he buys it for me. The hardship in the country is negatively affecting our sexual health.”

Celestine Adesola, a youth corps member, was quoted as arguing that the rising cost of condoms is exposing many youths to unsafe sex.

“Valentine’s is this week, and some parents would be shocked if they know the unimaginable and risky practices that their teens and youths want to indulge in for fun.”

Commenting, Michael Achoji, a pharmacist, attributed the hike in the cost of contraceptives to rising inflation.

He said prices have also been affected by a general increase in production cost and a rise in foreign exchange rate.