Harare, Zimbabwe(News of the South)-Though condoms are amazing inventions, helping prevent unwanted pregnancies, STIs and such, there was always that unwanted elephant in the room – comfort. But, it’s not as if there was any viable alternative available.
But that seems to have changed with the brilliantly-named company, Jiftip the Diktip, claiming to have invented a sticker that helps seal the penis shut, and eliminate the discomfort that condoms provide.
The sticker has been marketed as an “adhesive flexible sticker covering the urethra for the containment of urine and semen”. The package is advertised in costs around $6 (£4.54), and comes with three ‘Feel Shields’ accompanied by ‘Prepping Wipes’.
It claims that instead of constantly being flustered with condoms, just apply these tiny, unintrusive stickers and you’re good to go.
They even have a simple infographic to explain the process:
However, a quick look at the website and an alarming note can be seen. In a small print, it clearly states that the product “is not approved for STIs or pregnancy prevention purposes”.
It even spells out that “Use for novelty, pleasure, convenience, fun, or entertainment. THOU SHALT NOT USE FOR PREGNANCY OR STI PREVENTION PURPOSES”. Several health professionals have also come out and warned strongly against using the product.
The website also details out the process that went into its invention, describing: “It began as a desperate attempt to prevent wet spots and now has evolved to the product available in beta-testing today.”
They also claim to offer a 100% refund if the customer is not satisfied with the experience; though that does not seem to be a problem, with hundreds of positive comments in their review section.
Despite the clear drawbacks mentioned, the tip is still advertised with a controversial slogan: “Feel your partner, Feel Freedom, Feel Safe.”
Natika Halil, chief executive of sexual health charity The Family Planning Association says that “there’s no evidence to suggest that this product is safe or effective, and it could potentially be very painful”.
HIV charity Terrence Higgins Trust also criticized the product’s slogan stating that “you may feel safe using this product, but it needs to be absolutely clear that this is not a tool for safe sex.
“What’s more, many STIs, such as syphilis, herpes, and HPV, are passed on through skin-to-skin contact, so a product of this nature would never be able to protect against these.’-Meaww
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