Expiration date of condoms: is it possible to use expired ones, storage conditions

The most popular contraception

In 2021, there are a large number of types of contraception. These are natural, hormonal, barrier, surgical, chemical and other methods of contraception. One of the most popular contraceptives, especially among young people, is the condom (the most famous companies are Contex and Durex), which is a barrier method of contraception (that is, the barrier between the egg and the sperm). However, not in all cases it can protect against unwanted consequences. For example, if the condom bursts or slips off. The result largely depends on how correctly you prepared it. But even if everything is done correctly, the contraceptive may fail if you bought a product of poor quality.

Where to buy condoms

Although condoms are a specific product, they have no restrictions on the place of sale. You can buy these products at any grocery or non-food store, street kiosk, or even at a market stall. And, of course, a huge variety of them are available in pharmacies.

It is recommended to buy condoms in pharmacies. This advice does not mean that this product should be avoided in other places, but it is worth remembering that pharmaceutical stores have higher requirements for the goods supplied to their shelves.

In addition, the turnover rate of these products in pharmacies is much higher than in other retail outlets. This is due to the increasing literacy of the population, because correct storage conditions directly affect the quality of contraceptive products.

It is not recommended to purchase condoms in stores, and especially in stalls. Firstly, there is a high probability that counterfeit products will be presented there. Secondly, in such places less attention is paid to proper storage and the creation of special conditions for condoms. It is believed that these products are only afraid of punctures, and other external factors cannot in any way affect their quality.

Is it worth buying Chinese ones?

Recently, the Internet has been replete with advertisements for the sale of Contex condoms at prices below the pharmacy price. It is indicated that the tumblers were purchased directly from the factory or in China.

Chinese trading platforms Alibaba and Aliexpress also offer to buy condoms of this brand from them.

A few words about the manufacturers

According to statistics, the most popular and frequently purchased products are the products of an English company, which produces latex and polyurethane contraceives (unfortunately, the latter are not yet available in Russia) with various properties. Of course, Durex is the highest quality condoms available on the Russian market.

The second most popular product is also English, which, unfortunately, often produces low-quality product units. Contex is also often subject to counterfeiting. So if the price is unreasonably low, it is better to refuse such a Contex product.

Next come German and “Vizit”, which belong to the same price category. Siko even produces colored gum with flavors, although reviews suggest that the taste leaves much to be desired.

Another more or less popular company is the American “LifeStules”, the quality of which is at an average level. Moreover, from the opinions of consumers it follows that their products in envelopes are of much lower quality than the same ones, but in boxes.

Determining product quality

Manufacturers, when producing contraceptives, first check their quality. There are four criteria:

1. Elasticity. Products are stretched in length and width until they burst, which makes it possible to calculate the tensile strength limit.
2. Strength. The condom is filled with air, determining the maximum pressure held.
3. No microcracks. An electric current is supplied through the condom; if the material does not allow it to pass through, then there are no defects.
4. On the tightness of the packaging. Sealed products are placed in water; if there are no air bubbles, then there are no punctures.

Consumers can test condoms for strength and elasticity themselves. One of the most common methods for this is to fill it with water or air. The contraceptive must hold at least five liters of water without breaking. How much air you need to pump to test it by eye cannot be determined; you should rely only on your own discretion.

When choosing condoms, buyers focus on manufacturers' brands, trusting the specified quality. However, it is worth paying close attention to the material from which they are made. Today there are four types:

1. Latex.
2. Polyurethane.
3. Tactilon.
4. Lambskin.

Latex products are the most famous and widespread. They are excellent in strength; moreover, they are quite thin and elastic, which simultaneously provides full sensation and good protection against unplanned pregnancy. But latex has one important unpleasant feature - it can cause an allergic reaction in women. In addition, this material requires additional water-based lubricants.

If you are intolerant to latex, you can buy polyurethane condoms. They are not as elastic, but are considered more durable, and also fit very tightly to the body and accept its temperature, which gives additional advantages to the absence of allergic reactions. Tactilon condoms allow you to experience the most natural sensations during sex, while having high strength and elasticity.

The century of saving resources and combating environmental pollution has given rise to many discoveries. One of them is lambskin. This is a natural material made from cleaned lamb intestines. Its greatest achievement is that it decomposes very quickly when disposed of and does not affect the environment. But as for protection against pregnancy, it is lower than that of other materials. In addition, Lambskin does not protect against sexually transmitted diseases, which also reduces its popularity, because anything can happen, people do not like to take risks.

Identifying fakes

Contex is often counterfeited, but, as a rule, sex lovers who are familiar with this brand will not have difficulty distinguishing the original from the fake.

• Low cost (below average);
• Differences in the color scheme and design of the cardboard box from the generally accepted one;
• Mismatch of information printed on foil and general packaging (name, date, release, shelf life);
• Spelling errors, typos, uneven font;
• Differences in manufacturer data on the front, side and back sides;
• Lack of marking of compliance with GOST, ISO and CEN standards;
• Fake information about the official distributor in Russia;
• Instead of smooth condoms, the inside is dotted or ribbed;
• Unpleasant rubber smell;
• Dirty color and dark spots on the surface of the condom;
• Sticky grease.

The highest probability of stumbling upon a fake is in roadside and station stalls and shops.

To protect yourself and your loved ones from deception, you need to give preference to pharmacies. They strictly monitor compliance with storage conditions, and documents for goods are carefully checked.

Using low-quality condoms

One of the frequently asked questions from young people about contraceptives is formulated as follows: “Can I use expired condoms?” This is not surprising, since the majority of young people belong to the category of citizens with poor income, and the idea of ​​​​reusable use of latex contraceptives is very relevant.

When buying condoms, you need to carefully study the information on the packaging and check the contents for obvious defects. A condom is considered high quality and safe if it has passed all tests at the manufacturer. Generally, using a newly released condom is much safer than using one that has been on the shelves indefinitely.

Sooner or later, every person asks the question: what will happen if you use expired condoms. The reliability of condoms primarily depends on the technique of their use and adherence to personal hygiene rules. According to sociological research conducted at Indiana University, about 3.3% of respondents admitted to reusing a condom during one sexual act, and 7.4% of respondents are not afraid to use the product after its expiration date.

Kinds

The most common types of Durex condoms:

• Durex Classic;
• Extra Safe;
• 2XL;
• Durex Elite;
• Real Feel;
• Invisible;
• Pleasuremax;
• Fruity Mix;
• Sensation;
• Long Play;
• Durex Dual Extase;
• Magic Box.

Durex Dual Ecstasy is in good demand among young couples.

What are modern condoms made from?

Condoms are the most popular method of contraception as they prevent unwanted pregnancy and protect against sexually transmitted infections. When used and stored correctly, their effectiveness is very high, since the partner’s sperm does not enter the woman’s genital tract, and there is no contact of biological fluids with the mucous membrane.

There is a huge selection of condoms that differ in quality and cost. They are made from latex, polyurethane, polyisoprene and lamb intestine. The main properties of any material from which condom is made:

• strength;
• elasticity;
• sensitivity to temperature changes.

Shelf life of a condom subject to storage conditions

Subject to storage conditions, the shelf life is determined by the quality of the product. A lot depends on the manufacturer here. Indian, Chinese, and many domestic contraceptives are usually good for 2-3 years. If we are talking about well-known brands, such as Contex or Durex, then their use is allowed for five years.

You need to pay attention to the packaging of the product. If the date of manufacture is indicated and the expiration date of the condom has not yet expired, you can safely use it. However, often such data is not available at all.

It should be noted that such products usually reach distributors within several months. How long it is in the seller’s warehouse, and then lies on the counter, most likely the seller himself does not know. Therefore, if the packaging does not contain any information about the dates of manufacture and storage period of the product, you should look for other contraceptives.

In large stores with good turnover, such situations rarely arise. In pharmacies, products sold are checked. However, in small sales points, stalls and kiosks there is a risk of getting stale goods.

Condom storage conditions

There are general rules that will help extend the life of this contraceptive:

1. It is recommended to store condoms at room temperature. Too high or low temperatures are not suitable for contraception. The optimal temperature is from 0 to 35 degrees.
2. Avoid exposure to direct sunlight.
3. You should not carry protective equipment in a wallet or jeans pocket: the packaging gradually wears out and can be easily damaged by sharp objects falling into your pockets or purse.
4. Avoid getting the contraceptive into the hands of a child: they may damage the integrity of the package and accidentally swallow its contents.

Features of storing condoms

Do you want to extend the shelf life of Contex rubber products? Then it’s worth knowing how to store them correctly.

Moreover, it is not difficult at all and anyone can do it. The following must be observed:

• the desired air temperature and humidity;
• Protect the product from exposure to sunlight.

In order for the shelf life of Contex condoms to correspond to the factory one, the air temperature should not be below 0 or above 25 degrees Celsius. In addition, the storage area should be relatively dry. This means that air humidity should not be more than 75-80%. In addition, it is important to avoid exposing the product to sunlight. Under its influence, latex will begin to quickly deteriorate.

Of course, we should not forget that children can find a pack of latex contraception. Therefore, it is recommended to keep the products away from them. Condoms should be transported in a tight container. After all, the fragile layer of packaging material can be easily damaged.

If, upon opening the pack, it turns out that the contraceptives are deformed, lack lubrication, or smell unpleasant, then the Contex condoms have expired. Such products are unsuitable for use.

Storage space

Suitable storage places:

• home first aid kit;
• dry cabinet;
• refrigerator door.

Unsuitable:

• kitchen cabinets;
• places near heating devices;
• car interior;
• window sills, shelves in the sun. Conditions and expiration date for storing condoms We recommend having a special organizer, box, or drawer in the closet for storing hygiene products and contraception. Pads, condoms, wet wipes, lubricants will be in one place.

The refrigerator door also fits. At a temperature of 5-8 degrees, contraceptives retain their maximum shelf life. They can be kept next to saline solution, iodine, and any other medications. Another issue is the convenience of this location.

How to properly organize storage:

1. After purchase, do not remove from the original box. But if you wish, you can immediately divide the tape into individual bags.
2. If the pack is thrown away, place it in a container, bag, or fabric bag. A small organizer will do.
3. Store in a dry place, protected from the sun, out of reach of children and animals.

There is no need to buy a lot of condoms for future use for several years, pour them from different packs into one container. This makes it difficult to check the expiration date. Inventory audits will have to be carried out periodically.

Expiration date of different brands of condoms

Different manufacturers set the expiration date of condoms based on their brand and quality:

• Durex, Contex - up to 5 years;
• Lifestyles - from three to five;
• Sico - up to three years;
• domestic - from two to three.

Often Indian or Chinese contraceptives are sold under the guise of European ones. Their affiliation can be determined by the following parameters:

• the presence of a barcode always indicates the country of manufacture;
• American contraceptives are marked on the packaging with the state and city of production;
• European products are marked with the CE mark, country and company.

If there is no information about the manufacturer and especially the expiration date, it is worth looking for other contraceptives.

Durex condom expiration date

The use of Durex brand condoms is permitted for 5 years, starting from the date of manufacture, after which the expiration date expires and it is recommended to throw away the product. Over time, latex loses its former elasticity and strength, which leads to insufficient protection, especially if the necessary rules for storing the contraceptive are not followed.

Shelf life of Contex condoms

Contex condoms are considered a fairly popular brand in the contraceptive market. Their shelf life is 4-5 years, depending on the characteristics of the type produced.

Shelf life of Contex Classic condoms

The shelf life of Contex is up to 5 years. After its completion, it is better not to use the product.

Shelf life of Contex Light condoms

This type is less durable; they can be stored for no more than 4 years. Their wall thickness is less than average, so the material is susceptible to faster destruction and loss of elasticity.

Production date location

To inform consumers about the optimal storage time for condoms, each brand indicates this period on the packaging. So the manufacturer warns buyers that after the specified date it is unsafe to use this method of protection.

For quality products, the expiration date is indicated on the bottom of the packaging. These include:

• Contex and Contex light;
• Ribbet;
• Siko;
• Light, etc.

These same companies prefer to duplicate the production date on individual packages. However, not all stamps have this inscription. On cheap polyurethane condoms, marketers prefer not to write it. At the same time, inattentive buyers, when purchasing such products, do not suspect that they are risking their health.

Experts recommend refraining from purchasing if the storage time for condoms is not indicated on the packaging.

Where can I check the expiration date of a condom?

On condoms, as on other health products, the expiration date must be indicated on the packaging. There are two options here. The first - the period is indicated on the box and the second - is also marked on the individual packaging of each condom. If you have not found the date of manufacture or terms of use of the product anywhere, then purchasing it will definitely be associated with a health risk. In this case, the quality of the material cannot be guaranteed one hundred percent. Are you sure you want to take risks on this issue?

Are there any special labeling requirements?

Since condoms are a product made of delicate materials, the condition and integrity of which determine the safety and quality of the product, the manufacturer must indicate on the box of condoms the storage features of the product.

According to the requirements of GOST ISO 23409-2014, the packaging of contraceptives must contain storage instructions. The data on each type of packaging should allow you to trace all stages of production of both the product and the packaging itself. The manufacturer is obliged to notify the buyer that the products must not be exposed to sunlight and adverse external factors.

If condoms are sold in individual wrappers without boxes, all necessary information must be conveyed to the buyer in another format - on leaflets, posters, orally (at trainings), on additional types of packaging.

The most famous manufacturers

Each product niche has its clear favorites. In the production of condoms there are also manufacturers whose names are known throughout the world. In the Russian Federation, the condom market is represented by many brands; they can be roughly divided into domestic and foreign. If we talk about Russian manufacturers, the most recognizable are the “Gussar” preziki. But foreign products have a larger number of worthy representatives. The list of the most recognizable and, accordingly, popular names includes:

1. Contex.
2. Durex.
3. LifeStyles.
4. Sico.

The greatest demand is for the first two positions. The companies Contex and Durex have earned their name not only over time. The quality of their products is very high - the latex of their products is thin and durable. The price-quality ratio is optimal for both the global and Russian markets. And the variety of choice of condoms allows any consumer to satisfy their needs.

Manufacturers offer the buyer products with a wide variety of characteristics:

1. Classic, without any additional features.
2. Anatomical.
3. Ribbed.
4. Compacted.
5. Flavored.
6. Colored.

You should also pay attention to the size indicated on the packaging.

How to understand that a contraceptive has expired

Latex is a modern safe material that is most often used to make condoms. But over time, the properties of latex change, which leads to a loss of its quality. The lubricant on products dries out during long-term storage. And rubber loses its strength and elasticity, and can break at any moment.

A low-quality condom can be identified by the following signs:

• violation of the integrity of the packaging;
• the product has an unpleasant odor;
• lack of sufficient lubrication;
• lack of sufficient elasticity.

It should be remembered that a condom is a disposable product, designed for only one use. Its reuse does not guarantee safety and preservation of protective functions.

The storage period and conditions of condoms must be observed in strict accordance with the manufacturer's recommendations. If you treat them negligently, the consequences can be very unpleasant. In this case, the barrier functions of expired or low-quality contraceptives cannot be fully fulfilled. This often leads to unwanted pregnancy and (or) worse, infection with various infections, including very life-threatening diseases that are sexually transmitted.

Allergic reactions often occur caused by contact with low-quality contraceptives or components of these products. This leads to discomfort from sexual intercourse for each partner.

What happens to the condom after its expiration date or storage conditions are violated?

You should not use expired condoms, as the material loses its properties over time. The lubricant with which the contraceptive is impregnated dries out, which increases the risk of the product rupturing during sexual intercourse. The elasticity of the condom decreases and its smell changes. This product has virtually no protective function. Signs that can help identify an expired condom:

• violation of the integrity of the packaging;
• unpleasant odor;
• lack or excess of lubrication (the condom is dry to the touch or practically slips out of your hands).

Signs of an expired product

If the period of operation is not marked on the box, then you can independently determine if the condoms have become unusable.

This is indicated by several factors:

1. minimal amount or complete absence of lubricant;
2. presence of an unpleasant odor (musty, rotten, chemical);
3. the presence of visual effects (holes, abrasions);
4. loss of elasticity of latex.

If, after opening the product, such signs were found, then we can confidently come to the conclusion that the expiration date has expired and it is dangerous to use them.

Which is better Contex or Durex? What is their difference?

• It is noted that Durex sizes are larger (especially for 2XL condoms), while Contex is small.
• Durex condoms are thinner, make sex as natural as possible, and do not cause discomfort. Contex feels rougher.
• Durex has better lubricant quality. The specific smell quickly disappears after opening the package.
• But they complain about Contex that after using them the smell of rubber is felt for a long time.
• The advantage of Durex's competitors is a more affordable price.

What happens if the condom expires?

Many people don’t pay attention to the expiration date at all. In some cases, it is not possible to use a high-quality product and you have to use what you have. You can determine whether a product can be used using the following parameters:

• if upon opening the package it is discovered that there is no lubricant;
• the elasticity of the product is not felt;
• there is an unpleasant smell.

If such moments are present or the expiration date of the condom has expired, you should replace it with a new one. The consequences of using such a product are quite unpredictable - there is a chance that you will get lucky and everything will be fine. But the risk that everything will be abnormal is also quite high.

Is it possible to use an expired condom?

Some people wonder whether it is still possible to use an expired condom or not. The answer to this is obvious - of course you can use it. Possible scenarios are approximately as follows:

• an allergic reaction, in both partners;
• unwanted pregnancy;
• getting sexually transmitted diseases of varying severity.

When you still want to abstain from such consequences or eliminate them altogether, you should pay attention to the expiration date of condoms. Even if there is still up to six months left before it expires, it is recommended to replace the product with a new one. It’s not worth trying to solve the problem with an additional amount of lubricant, hoping that it will help and carry it through. Even if this has already worked a couple of times. For some situations, just one small time is enough to last a lifetime.

What are the dangers of stitched condoms?

When using a damaged condom, there is a high risk of its integrity being damaged or slipping off the penis. What happens if you wear an expired condom during sexual intercourse:

1. the likelihood of HIV infection increases (due to the increased permeability of latex, even without visible damage);
2. possible infection with hepatitis (meaning types B and C);
3. the risk of contracting sexually transmitted infections increases (gonorrhea, syphilis, chlamydia, trichomonas, mycoplasma, gardnerella, genital herpes, genital warts, ureaplasma and others);
4. the likelihood of sperm penetration through expired latex increases, which will lead to an unwanted pregnancy (if the condom breaks, sexual intercourse is considered unprotected and requires emergency contraception);
5. the appearance of allergies, which are accompanied by unpleasant symptoms (swelling and redness, severe itching or burning, sometimes pain and discomfort when urinating, rash);
6. the risk of developing vaginal dysbiosis increases (imbalance of beneficial and opportunistic microflora on the woman’s vaginal mucosa).

If you are still not sure whether you can use expired condoms, it should be noted that the risk of infection with opportunistic flora also increases, and inflammatory reactions and irritations occur in most cases, since the lubricant on such condoms is dry and elasticity is reduced.

What to do after sexual intercourse with an expired condom?

In cases where the product’s deterioration was noticed after sex, measures should be taken to prevent premature pregnancy and STI infection. Prevention of pregnancy:

• thorough washing of the genitals, in particular the vagina (douching is indicated);
• using emergency contraceptive pills (no later than 72 hours after sex).

Prevention of sexually transmitted infections:

• hygiene procedures immediately after sexual intercourse in women (douching);
• the man should urinate immediately and then also rinse the penis;
• both sexes should visit a venereologist to undergo an examination and ensure that infection is excluded.

To avoid the need for these measures, it is enough to be careful when choosing a condom, follow the rules for storing it, the technique of putting it on and taking it off, and also pay attention to the expiration date indicated on the packaging. High-quality condoms will cost more, but are more reliable.

Technique for proper use of a condom

Incorrect condom use technique is considered one of the primary causes of unplanned pregnancy. To avoid embarrassing situations, marketers have developed step-by-step instructions for using contraceptives:

• it is necessary to carefully open the sealed package of the condom without damaging it;
• the process of unfolding the product must begin before sexual intercourse;
• the penis must be erect;
• the material of the edge of the condom is pulled towards the partner’s scrotum and gradually placed on the head of the penis;
• moving his hand to the base of the penis, the partner straightens the condom along its entire length;
• it is important to leave some space at the base of the condom free so that there is room to retain the seed;
• after the first ejaculation, the contraceptive is immediately removed with smooth movements to avoid sperm getting on the partner;
• a used condom should be thrown away and not reused.

Despite simple safety rules, world statistics show that more than half of the world's population (51%) put on a condom after sexual penetration, and 45% of respondents remove it before ejaculation. Regarding the last point, despite the categorical prohibition of doctors, everyone decides for themselves whether expired condoms can be reused.

Questions about correct and incorrect use of condoms

Can I use expired condoms?

If a condom has expired, the only thing left to do is throw it away. After the end of the prescribed period, condoms do not provide the necessary reliability and contraceptive effect. There is no need to use those condoms on which the date is erased or poorly printed, or there is no date at all. These condoms may not protect against possible infections or unwanted conception.

Can additional lubricant be used?

If the purchased condom is without lubricant, it should be applied before sexual intercourse. A contraceptive without lubrication can cause pain to the partner instead of the expected pleasure. If the condom is lubricated, additional application is not required, except in cases where the existing one, in the opinion of the man or woman, is not enough.

You cannot use lubricants with a fatty base with latex condoms, as this will destroy the structure of the product and significantly reduce the protective effect. In addition, applying a fatty lubricant to latex can lead to its rupture, then the contraceptive effect will be zero.

Latex condoms should only be lubricated with silicone or water based lubricants. But there is one “but” here, if the condom is used with a silicone sex toy (and they are highly recommended to be used with a condom), then you cannot apply silicone lubricant, as this will cause the condom to stick to the device.

Different types of sex

For different types of sex - vaginal (classic), oral or anal, there are different types of condoms, designed specifically taking into account the characteristics of use. The corresponding inscription should be on the packaging of the contraceptive.

Is it safe to use a condom underwater or in the shower?

The effectiveness of condoms used in water has not been studied. Under these circumstances, the risk of the condom slipping may increase. Although salty seawater does not have a negative effect on the condom material, there is a good chance that chemicals used in swimming pools (such as chlorine or ozone) may have a similar effect. Bath oils or other substances dissolved in water or used in the shower can adversely affect the latex material of the condom.

Can condoms be used for anal sex?

There are currently no specific requirements for condoms used for anal intercourse. Before anal sex, it is recommended to apply more water-based or silicone-based lubricant over the condom to reduce the risk of tearing or slipping.

What do the numbers printed on the individual condom packaging mean? Can you tell me where the product was purchased?

Since verifying product information takes a very long time, we only share lot number information with law enforcement agencies. But we can share some general information with you.

On the packaging line, Durex foil and cardboard packaging is marked with a batch number and expiration date. Our products typically take approximately 90 days to arrive at our warehouse. From the warehouse they are sent to retail locations. The shelf life is established based on stability research data and means that the product will retain its declared properties until the specified date. Typically, Durex condoms have a shelf life of 5 years. The only exception currently is Durex Real Feel polyisoprene condoms, which have a shelf life of 3 years.

For example, an expiration date of "2014-05" indicates that the condom was manufactured in May 2009 and was likely released in August 2009.

What is the expiration date of a condom and how to store it

Before using a condom, you need to check its expiration date. It is different for different condoms and depends on the type of product and its features. Store purchased condoms in a cool place (but not in the refrigerator) and away from light.

The ideal place is the drawer of the bedside table, provided that the temperature in the room does not rise above +25. If stored incorrectly, the condom inside the package may stick together and become completely unusable.

Myths about the unreliability of latex

You can often hear the statement that latex is a porous material and its pores are larger than the molecules of HIV viruses, and therefore such condoms are useless in protecting against infections. This opinion is wrong. Latex does have pores, and their size is larger than viruses, but the structure of the condom itself is multi-layered, which ensures that membranes overlap the pores and creates a kind of microscopic sieve of several layers.

In addition, the top of condoms is covered with a thick lubricant, which is absorbed into the pores and clogs them completely. Water molecules are also smaller in size compared to the pores in latex, however, if you pour water into an ungreased condom, it will not flow out of it.

To ensure that sex is safe and brings pleasure and not disappointment, it is important to use a condom correctly, observing simple requirements and conditions.

Origin story

The first condom, or condom as it is also called, appeared at the beginning of the 16th century in the personal medicine cabinet of the English king Henry VIII.

The inventor of the contraceptive was Dr. Charles Condom, and the raw material was the intestinal mucosa of a sheep. According to scientists, the first analogues of condoms were found in ancient Greece and the Roman Empire.

Today no one uses animal organs anymore. Modern production is almost entirely based on latex, which is also called natural rubber. It is processed sap from the rubber tree. In the USSR, the condom even had a special name “rubber product No. 2”.

Timing matters

Condoms have proven themselves to be a reliable way to protect against unplanned pregnancy and unwanted diseases.

• The level of protection of the condom is extremely high, but only if the shelf life indicated on its packaging has not expired before use.
• The problem is that an expired condom has a high chance of breaking at the most inopportune moment.

Please note: quality condoms have a shelf life of about five years.

This is one of the criteria that should be taken into account when purchasing. British Durex, for example, is stored for 5 years, and Polish and Chinese condoms are only 3 years old.

Some unscrupulous people indicate deadlines on the packaging, which allows them to sell goods that should be written off. Often information about the batch, which consists of the month and year of its production, helps determine the production time of a product.