Condom shelf life, precautions when using condoms

Condoms are a contraceptive measure taken by men and women to avoid pregnancy during sex. Generally speaking, as one of the contraceptive products, condoms have a shelf life. So, how long is the shelf life of condoms?

Condom shelf life:

The shelf life of condoms is generally five years, and that of condoms with added drugs is three years. Therefore, before using condoms, women must first check whether the condoms have expired. Expired condoms have deteriorated and are prone to rupture, so they should not be used.

In addition, condoms must be stored in a cool, dry environment and not exposed to acids, alkalis, or oils. If they become sticky or brittle after being exposed to the above conditions, they should not be used even within the condom's shelf life.

When using condoms, please pay attention to the following points:

(1) Before putting on the glans penis, you should pinch the sac at the top of the condom to prevent the air in the sac from expanding when heated, causing the semen to overflow to the base of the penis during ejaculation.

(2) Only water-based lubricants should be used on condoms. Vaseline, liquid wax, facial oil, cooking oil, etc. can increase the brittleness of condoms in a short period of time and accelerate their rupture.

(3) If a condom is found to have a hole or has slipped off during use, it is not safe to simply replace the condom. Sexual intercourse should be stopped immediately and the genitals should be cleaned with disinfectant.