We often end up assuming that some things don't come with an expiry date but that's not the truth. For instance, condoms don't last indefinitely, they have an expiry date too. It is this lack of awareness that a lot of us neglect to check the packaging for its expiry details.
For their safe usage, it is important to be aware of condom expiration or we can end up putting ourselves at multiple health risks.
Do Condoms Expire?
We spoke to Deepa Dewan, Senior Director, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology Cloudnine Group of Hospitals, Gurgaon, Golf Course Road, and asked her to share about the shelf life of condoms in detail. She said, “The shelf life of condoms varies depending on the type and brand, but it's typically around one year to five years. It also depends on the storage conditions. The expiry date is usually printed on the packaging, and it's crucial to adhere to it for safety reasons.”
The expert remarked that over time, the latex or polyurethane present in condoms begins to break down, making them more prone to tearing or leaking.
Safety Tips For Using Condoms
- Always store condoms in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
- Check the expiry date before use, and if a condom has passed its expiration, it's safer to replace it with a fresh one to ensure effective protection.
Risks Associated With Using An Expired Condom
Further, the health expert stressed the risks associated with using an expired condom:
- Over time, the materials used in condoms degrade, making the condom tear or break during use, further reducing their effectiveness in preventing pregnancy and protecting against sexually transmitted infections.
- Condoms are designed to stretch and conform to different sizes. However, the expiry of condoms negatively impacts the elasticity, leading to a higher likelihood of it slipping or coming off during intercourse.
- Lubrication on condoms dries out over time, resulting in increased friction during its use. This can lead to discomfort and increase the risk of breakage.
- “The structural integrity of the condom may be compromised over time, making it less reliable in providing a barrier against bodily fluids and pathogens,” the expert added.
- The health expert concluded, “To ensure optimal protection and minimize the risk of unintended consequences, it's essential to use condoms within their specified shelf life and check the expiry date before each use. If a condom has expired, it's recommended to discard it and use a new, unexpired one.”
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