Do condoms expire?

We all know that men and women need to take some contraceptive measures when having sex. This can not only avoid accidents but also save a lot of trouble. Moreover, using condoms is the healthiest contraceptive measure, and it does not harm either man or woman. However, condoms must be branded, with safety and quality assurance, and approved by health authorities. So, will condoms expire?

1. Condoms have a shelf life. Consumers can use them without worry within the shelf life. However, expired condoms have many risks, so expired condoms can no longer be used normally.

After a condom leaves the factory, the rubber of the condom ages over time, affecting its toughness. Therefore, expired condoms have deteriorated, are prone to rupture, and are no longer suitable for normal use.

In addition, high heat or strong light will accelerate the aging of rubber and weaken the tensile strength, thus affecting the function of condoms. Therefore, when purchasing condoms, if they are stored in places exposed to spotlights or sunlight, they should not be purchased. In addition, places that are often subjected to pressure or friction should not be stored, such as wallets or trouser back pockets.

Generally speaking, the expiration date of latex condoms is 5 years after they leave the factory, and the expiration date is also indicated on the box. If the condoms are well stored (they should be placed in a cool place), there is no problem using them before the expiration date. A few specially designed condoms, such as Okamoto's Warm Grains (with added heat-sensing lubricants) or double-protection condoms containing spermicides, have a shorter shelf life than ordinary latex condoms, generally about 3 years. Be sure to understand the details of the shelf life before purchasing.

2. Expired condoms cannot be used. Therefore, when a man and a woman are having sex, if they use condoms for contraception, they must first check the shelf life of the condoms. If it is within the shelf life, you can use it with confidence. If it has expired, you must throw it away. If you use it accidentally, it is very likely to cause an unexpected pregnancy.