Here’s what happens if you use an expired condom

Everything comes with an expiry date. This is true for condoms as well. Typically, a condom comes with a shelf life of 5 years but this can decrease due to exposure to heat and light

By: Fukres |
December 27, 2018 12:25 pm

Sex is one of the most intimate moments shared by a couple. When the time is right (and we all know when that happens) checking the condom you are about to use in the act is the last thing on your mind. But it should be. Condoms expire and using expired condoms can leave you in a big mess.

It not only puts you at the risk of conception but also increases the risk of contracting a sexually transmitted infection (STI). Here is all you need to know about expired condoms:

What are condoms made of?
Typically, condoms are made of latex or polyurethane. Both these materials have their own properties like elasticity, tensile strength and come with storage instructions which determine their shelf life. Like everything else, these properties weaken over the time, making the condom susceptible to breakage during the intercourse.

Condoms

How long do the condoms last for?
Typically, a condom can last for up to five years from the date of manufacturing. However, this date varies with lubrication and the kind of spermicide being used. Apart from this, storing the condom in bright light or heat also shortens its shelf life. The expiry date is mentioned on the box or the wrapper of the condom.

What happens when a condom expires?
When a condom expires, it’s more prone to breakage during sexual intercourse. Apart from this, lubricant dries out and the spermicide (the substance that kills sperms) becomes less effective increasing the risk of conception and sexually transmitted diseases (STDs).

ALSO READ: 11 facts about condoms that we thought were false but are actually true

condoms

What happens if I use an expired condom?
Unlike medication, expired condoms do not pose a health hazard. However, they do lose their functionality and sometimes can put you at a risk of a series of problems. Here’s what would happen if you use an expired condom:

a) Increases the risk of unwanted pregnancy.
b) Increases the risk of breakage.
c) Increases the risk of a sexually transmitted disease (STD).
d) Sometimes cause an allergy which can lead to a urinary tract infection (UTI).

ALSO READ: Yes, female condoms do exist and here’s all you need to know about it!

Is an expired condom better than no condom?
Remember the old English phrase– ‘something is better than nothing‘? This is true for expired condoms as well. It’s better to have some protection instead of no protection at all. And remember there’s a chance that the condom might not break at all.

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