This is what happens if you use an expired condom

“Expiry dates are there to keep you safe. It’s not worth gambling with your health for the sake of convenience,” he further cautions.

What happens if you use an expired condom?

Expired condoms can develop micro-tears or tiny cracks that are invisible to the eye. Even if they look fine, they may not be safe. “These small tears can allow semen or infectious agents to pass through,” explains Dr Jain. “That directly increases the risk of both pregnancy and sexually transmitted infections (STIs).” So once a condom is past its expiration date, it simply cannot be trusted.

Does it still protect against STIs and pregnancy?

An expired condom’s structural strength is compromised. “It offers reduced protection against both pregnancy and STIs,” Dr Jain points out. “That makes it unsafe for use, regardless of how intact it may appear.” In short, an expired condom does not protect against pregnancy and sexually transmitted infections.

Can condoms expire even before the printed date?

One surprising fact, Dr Jain notes, is that condoms can sometimes “expire” even before the printed date if they are stored poorly. Wallets, purses, glove compartments, or car dashboards are some of the worst places to keep them. “Heat, friction, and sunlight all damage latex,” he explains. “Carrying a condom in your wallet for months might mean it fails long before its labelled expiry.” So, how you store it plays just as big a role as when it was manufactured.

Carrying a condom in your wallet for months can lead to it expiring long before its labelled expiry date (image source: freepik)

What is the right way to store condoms?

Dr Jain advises, “Store them in a cool, dry place away from sunlight and sharp objects. A bedside drawer or a cabinet is ideal. Just avoid wallets or pockets for long periods.” Proper storage helps ensure condoms remain effective for their full shelf life.

Is there any grace period after expiry?

Some people assume that using a condom that is just a few days or weeks past the expiration date is still fine. However, Dr Jain warns that it is a dangerous misconception. “Once a condom has expired, it should be considered immediately unsafe, even if it looks and feels normal”. Thus, using a condom even slightly past the expiration date carries unnecessary risk.

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