Product Withdrawal from Sexual Health and Family Planning ACT
Sexual Health and Family Planning ACT (SHFPACT) is issuing a product withdrawal for products distributed as condoms by SHFPACT since January 2024.
SHFPACT has become aware that instead of condoms, lubricated probe covers for medical ultrasound have been inadvertently distributed to members of the public at recent events in the ACT. These products have similar packaging and the appearance of condoms but do not provide the same level of protection against pregnancy and sexually transmitted infections.
SHFPACT is issuing the following advice:
- If you have received what looks like a condom from SHFPACT since January 2024, do not use it.
- If you are an individual who has the product, please open the packaging and then discard the product into your normal waste.
- For organisations who have received the product, immediately remove it from public access. SHFPACT staff will collect the products or they can be disposed of using the instructions above.
SHFPACT advises anyone who has already used the product to contact SHFPACT on 02 6247 3077 for advice and to schedule a free clinic appointment, or contact your GP.
Upon being made aware of this issue, SHFPACT advised the ACT Health Directorate and associated government agencies and is in the process of recalling the affected products from the community.
Tracey Hall, CEO of SHFPACT issued the following remarks: “On behalf of Sexual Health and Family Planning ACT, I deeply apologise to the ACT community. Please be assured that our priority is the health and well-being of Canberrans, and we are fully committed to resolving this issue with transparency and diligence.”
“An internal investigation is currently underway to determine the cause and extent of this issue. SHFPACT will ensure that the findings of our investigation are fully available to the ACT Government.”
“We understand the seriousness of this situation and are committed to taking all necessary steps to prevent such occurrences in the future. As more information becomes available, we will provide further updates.”
If you require any further information, please contact SHFPACT directly on 02 6247 3077.
Product description
These products are made of similar materials to condoms and are used in medical settings therefore they do not present any additional risk of harm, However, they do not provide the same level of protection against pregnancy and Sexually Transmissible Infections (STIs) as condoms.
The packaging is blue and displays the following text: Checkmate lubricated probe cover.
About Sexual Health and Family Planning ACT (SHFPACT)
Sexual Health and Family Planning ACT (SHFPACT) offers a holistic, confidential and respectful service to Canberra and the region. For 50 years, SHFPACT has provided clinical and education services in Canberra and the region to improve sexual and reproductive health outcomes in our community.
MEDIA SHFPACT CEO Tracey Hall is available for media comment. Please register your interest with SHFPACT via 02 6247 3077.