The most frequent complaint about the condoms themselves was that they seem too long and a little difficult to insert the first time. Some women reported discomfort with the rings. These problems were reduced or solved by repeated use. In several studies, it was found that women who feared that they were at a high risk of STD infection seemed more inclined to accept the female condom. A group of female sex workers tested in France said they felt reassured with a female condom because they knew that polyurethane is stronger than latex and therefore felt confident there would be no breakage.
Polyurethane is more expensive than latex, and more of it is used.
As well, the manufacturing process itself is more costly even when large numbers are being produced. This is much too high for the populations who are most likely to benefit from it. In comparison, male condoms were sold at around 15 Zimbabwe cents. Data from 60 countries suggest that there is global demand for female condoms at a widely affordable price. Demand was estimated at 7million for 1997 and 13 million for 1998.