Risk of Using Expired Condoms

If you see the condom pack, the expiry dates would go on for years. But it is not preferable to use old condoms. The most widely used latex condoms can be used up to six years but you need to store it in a cool and dry place. Condoms fail if their structural integrity is not up to the mark. One of the sure shot ways of disturbing it is keeping it always in your pocket as that brings it in contact with moisture and heat. There is more to the risk of using expired condoms than unwanted pregnancy. It can lead to STDs or simply lead to irritation. Damage caused due to expiry of condoms After the expiration of latex condom, the latex becomes brittle. As it dries more and more, the flexibility and endurance of the condoms keep worsening. Its tendency to break is more as it gets older and older. If there are spermicides in the condom, they become less effective after expiry. The substance that is responsible for getting rid of sperms loses its lubrication and effectiveness. Health risks of using an expired condom Unwanted Pregnancy - This is the risk factor which is obvious. Expired condom means it can break while having intercourse. You should realise that with an expired condom, you put your partner at a risk of pregnancy even without ejaculation. Pre ejaculates are good enough for that. Small holes can develop in your condom through which the semen would seep without you even realising. Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STDs) - The risk of STDs is as great as that of unwanted pregnancy. As the condom is unable to stop the mixing of your body fluids, it gives a free way for transmission of viruses and other infectious particles. So, when you think that your condom is protecting your from STD, whatever little protection it offers, it would break in the vagina and cause the transmission of STD from your partner to you or the other way round. Irritation - If you use an expired condom, it is still better than using none at all. If you find no other condom in your house, it may have to be used, i.e. if sex becomes unavoidable. But bear in mind that the dry and brittle condom can lead to a lot of irritation. The skin of the penis is sensitive and a brittle condom can hurt. So, understand the consequences before you indulge.