The Rape-aXe Condom: Will you wear one?

The condom has evolved, from a thin rubber device for birth control and STD protection to a weapon of defense against rape. Earlier this week, while the champions were taking the fields (in the words of K’Naan) Dr. Sonnet Ehlers a South African physician was busy distributing her invention. The new condom designed with teeth-like hooks is very much like a tampon, inserted into a woman’s vagina “waiting” to grip an assailant. Once attached on a man’s penis the rape-axe fastens tighter and can only be surgically removed by a doctor.The condom however is not specifically designed to prevent pregnancy or STD's.

Now who would wear this solely for defense and how often? Do women go out everyday anticipating a rape? I realize in South Africa where rape is an everyday occurrence these questions are irrelevant, but how many women who ordinarily do not feel at risk would wear one? While Dr. Ehlers sees this as her contribution to women's safety it could also be viewed as a confirmation of the vulnerability and helplessness of the female gender. It is akin to handing everyone a bulletproof vest for fear of irrepressible gun men. In my opinion violence shouldn't beget violence but should be punished appropriately. Hopefully this invention will serve more as evidence to prosecute where DNA tests are conducted.