What is the Risk of Using Expired Condoms?

Although, condoms are long lasting when inside the packaging, they must be used way before the expiry date. Condoms are likely to fail when their structure is compromised by way of storing them in the right place, not tampering, etc. Keeping condoms in the pocket, exposing them to heat and moisture or using them after they have expired disturbs their structural integrity. The risk of using expired condoms is more than the risks of unwanted pregnancy. Besides, expired condoms can lead to STDs or irritation.

Risk of Damage to expired condom

A latex condom when stored in a cool and dry place is usable up to 6 years. After the expiration of latex condoms, it starts to dry out. When it is dried a little more, the condom loses its flexibility and strength. The older the condom gets, the more likely it is to break. Even the Spermicides that are used in some condoms become less effective post the expiry date because the substance that kills sperms loses its lubrication, thereby losing effectiveness.

Risks of Using Expired Condoms

   Sexually Transmitted Diseases

   The risk of using expired condoms goes beyond unwanted pregnancy. Since the                      condom loses its efficiency, it is likely to prevent the mixing of fluids, viruses,    infecting particles, etc, thereby increasing the risks of acquiring harmful diseases.

   Unwanted Pregnancy

   Unwanted pregnancy is one of the most obvious risk factors that are associated    with the use of expired condom. Men may not really ejaculate, but still get their    partner to suffer from STDs as a condom that has lost its durability and strength    is likely to break inside the vagina during intercourse and thereby allow the    transfer of STDs from one person to another. Small holes or rips can form without    you even noticing. They provide the passage to sperms to enter vagina for    conception.

   Irritation

   The dried or brittle condom may irritate the skin of the vagina or penis and    thereby cause minor rash. It is; however, better to use a condom during sexual    intercourse than not use one at all. So, if at any point of time, you find yourself in    a situation when there is only one condom left in the house and there is no way    you can purchase more, go ahead and use it.

There are times when the hyper markets do not remove the expired condoms from shelves. Therefore, ensure that you check the packaging before buying condoms. Do not buy condoms that are close to their expiry date.