Why do Condoms Expire?
Most health and medical products have an expiration date, and condoms are no exception.
This lessens their effectiveness.
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Improper Storage
Aside from this, how a condom is stored can influence how effective it is.
Heat and humidity can degrade the material in both the condom wrapper and the condom itself.
This may render the condom less effective even before its expiration date.
The date is typically found on the edges of the foil wrappers.
Prior tousing any condom, check the packaging to ensure it is not damaged, opened, or expired.
If it is, do not use it.
Can I Still Use an Expired Condom?
Using an expired condom is not recommended.
An expired condom may not provide adequate protection against pregnancy or STIs.
The one exception is condoms with spermicide, given the skin irritation that can occur.
Condoms can be handy for other things.
While this may seem silly, it could prove useful in such a time of need.
Condoms are extremely elastic and can easily contain something of that size.
Just roll one over the item and tie a knot to seal it.
Latex or polyurethane condoms last the longest, typically five years from the manufactured date.
Condoms with spermicide or those made from polyisoprene expire in three years.
Lambskin condoms degrade faster and are only good for one year.
No, you should not use condoms after their expiration date.
Expired condoms may not protect against pregnancy and STIs.
However, Planned Parenthood advises that an expired condom is still better than having sexual contact without any condom.
There is one exception.
Condoms that contain spermicide should never be used after the expiration date.
Possibly, depending on where you keep your wallet.
Improper storage of condoms can cause them to degrade faster than the expiration date.
You should store condoms at room temperature away from heat and humidity.
Condoms can be safely stored in a bedroom drawer.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.Condom use: An overview.
Planned Parenthood.What happens if you use an expired condom?
