Perceptions of condom fit and feel and condom access among African-American men who have sex with men

BACKGROUND: Significant resources have been dedicated to the promotion of condoms for men who have sex with men (MSM), particularly, African-American men who are at a higher risk for HIV and STD infection. However, little is known about perceptions of condom fit and feel and condom access among African-American MSM. METHODS: Data from 202 African-American MSM who regularly used condoms were recruited at a 2006 African-American Gay Pride event. Descriptive and Chi-square statistics were employed to explore the perceptions of condom fit and feel using the Condom Fit and Feel scale as well as trends in accessing condoms. RESULTS: While many participants perceived condom fit and feel as acceptable, 21% of African-American MSM felt condoms were too tight and 13% felt condoms were too short. Many men (46%) reported purchasing condoms. African-American MSM acquired free condoms from sexual partners, community health fairs, and health care providers. Younger men (19-25) more often reported getting a condom from a sexual partner, health care provider or clinic than older men (p<.05). CONCLUSIONS: Findings suggest important differences in the size of condoms that should be offered to African-American MSM. Condoms perceived as too tight or too short may be considered uncomfortable and result in decreased consistent use. The nature of the venues through which men accessed condoms supports the continued dissemination of free condoms. Findings also suggest that public health providers may want to engage more with social networks to reach young African-American MSM in promoting condom use.