Rape-aXe, sometimes described as an “anti-rape condom”, is a controversial device developed by South African medical technician Sonette Ehlers. The concept was first publicly reported in 2005 and later received renewed attention around the 2010 FIFA World Cup.

How Was Rape-aXe Designed to Work?

The device was designed to be worn internally, similar to a female condom. It featured inward-facing barbs intended to attach to an attacker during forced penetration. According to descriptions of the invention, the resulting pain was intended to interrupt the assault and provide the victim an opportunity to escape and seek help.

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The device was also designed so that removal would require medical assistance, potentially bringing the alleged attacker into contact with medical and law-enforcement authorities.

Why Did Rape-aXe Become Controversial?

Critics raised concerns that an attacker trapped by the device could become more violent, potentially increasing the danger to the victim. Others argued that such technology places too much responsibility on women to protect themselves from sexual violence instead of focusing primarily on prevention, accountability and perpetrator behaviour.

Is Rape-aXe Available for Sale?

Rape-aXe did not become a widely available commercial product. AFP Fact Check reported that although samples had been distributed, the prototype had not been mass-produced or made available for ordinary purchase. A September 2026 report also said that disputes surrounding the invention’s development and control have continued, leaving its commercial future uncertain.

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The Larger Debate

The story of Rape-aXe is therefore less about a commercially available safety product and more about a long-running debate surrounding women’s self-defence, sexual-violence prevention, medical ethics and responsibility for preventing sexual assault.

Rape-aXe remains a controversial concept rather than a widely available commercial anti-sexual-assault product.