Checkmate Lubricated Probe Covers were given to students instead of condoms. Photo: Condoms Australia.
Students at five Canberra schools were mistakenly given lubricated probe covers instead of condoms as part of a sexual health program, the ACT Education Directorate has confirmed.
Not-for-profit Sexual Health and Family Planning ACT (SHFPACT) issued a product recall on Thursday (8 August) after it became aware that the probe covers for medical ultrasounds were distributed to members of the public at recent events intended to promote safe sex.
SHFPACT distributed the incorrect product to Dickson College, Gungahlin College, Canberra College Woden, Lake Ginninderra College and Melba Copland Secondary School (College Campus) from January 2024 onwards.
Late on Thursday (8 August), Canberra College Woden sent out an email to parents letting them know that students should not use the probe covers if they have received them.
“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,” the email stated.
SHFPACT CEO Tracey Hall, who has only been in the role since May 2024, said an internal investigation is currently underway into how this happened.
“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,” she said.
SHFPACT CEO Tracey Hall says the matter is being investigated. Photo: File.
Former employees of SHFPACT who spoke to Region anonymously said they were surprised by the error, as the organisation had good processes in place to check sexual health products before they were distributed. They said they’d never heard of this happening before and hoped this incident wouldn’t tarnish its good works.
Reo Golding, a student at Dickson College, told ABC Canberra that the error created a big risk for students, as many don’t usually purchase condoms and could be using them for the first time.
An ultrasound probe cover is a physical barrier made from a similar material as condoms that is designed to prevent cross-contamination during an ultrasound exam. Certain condoms can sometimes be used instead of probe covers and have the same effect. However, a probe cover can never be used instead of a condom for birth control or to prevent a sexually transmitted disease.
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 to contact your GP.
SHFPACT said it advised the ACT Health Directorate and associated government agencies of the error.
The incorrect product distributed has blue packaging and displays the following text: Checkmate Lubricated Probe Cover.
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