Durex banned after planning quality survey

THE Family Planning Service has stopped stocking Durex condoms. Of 94 women requesting the morning-after pill, Levonelle, 49 said they needed it because of condom failure.

Durex was commonly named, so the clinic has switched to the Pasante range.

A Durex spokesman said that its condoms exceeded the requirements of all worldwide quality standards.

'It is pointless to do any audit if you don't look at the findings, improve on what we have found and make changes,' said clinic manager Sue Le Page.

'You can't really condemn Durex, though. All their products are tested and Kitemarked.'

She thought that Durex might be cited in cases of condom failure simply because it was a well-known brand.

'We have decided to change, though, to a new brand and our clients seem to be quite happy with the new range.'

A Durex spokesman confirmed that each of its condoms sold in the UK was electronically tested to ensure it had no faults when packed.

Samples were also taken from every production batch and tested for strength and stretch, as well as a rigorous physical test for leaks. Any failures result in the entire batch being destroyed.

'Durex condoms exceed the requirements of all worldwide quality standards and they carry the Durex seal of quality symbol to recognise this,' said a company spokesman.

Its latex condoms also carry the British Standards Institution's Kitemark and CE markings.

'High-quality condoms like Durex, when used consistently and correctly, provide an effective barrier against unplanned pregnancy, HIV and other sexually-transmitted infections,' said the spokesman.

'Clinical trials have shown correct and consistent use of latex condoms results in contraceptive efficacy rates of 95 to 98%. The main reason for condom failure is because people, especially sexually-inexperienced young adults, often don't know how to look after and use condoms,' said the spokesman.

'This is exactly why every pack of Durex condoms contains a leaflet clearly explaining how the product should be used.'

Correct usage is also demonstrated on the company website, in its range of sexual health leaflets and sex education materials and also in factsheets provided to pharmacists and other health care professionals.

'We are committed to continuing to work with health care professionals, educators and the media to raise awareness of correct condom use and to urge people to practise using a condom and to talk openly to their partner before they get caught up in the heat of the moment,' said the spokesman.