Nationwide condom 'failure' warning issued by experts as heatwave hits

A sexual health firm has issued a nationwide warning as the UK is set to experience hot weather.

With temperatures potentially reaching highs of 26C in Scotland, contraception experts are urgently reminding people that condoms are only effective up to certain temperatures.

Sunlight, heat, and humidity can all negatively affect condoms, leading to breakage and increasing the risk of STIs and unplanned pregnancies. Ensuring safety during sex should always be a priority, so it's crucial to carry and store condoms correctly.

The team at Condoms.uk have shared their expert advice on condom storage and care, warning that hot weather could cause condoms to break and lead to contraceptive failure.

Advice from the condom experts

1. Avoid storing them in warm, damp places

While it might seem convenient to keep protection within easy reach, some common storage spots aren't suitable.

Locations such as your wallet, bathroom, glove box, and even pockets are not recommended due to their naturally warm, damp environments, reports Wales Online. Instead, try storing them in cooler rooms in your house.

2. Keep them out of direct sunlight

In addition to heat and humidity, direct sunlight can also impact the effectiveness of condoms. Therefore, avoid storing them in places that often receive direct sunlight, like window sills or on top of a chest of drawers.

Cooler, darker places like a bedroom drawer or cupboard are more suitable.

3. Use boxes and containers to store condoms

Condoms should be stored in cool, dry places and ideally, in containers designed specifically for condoms. These can help you keep track of expiry dates, more on this later, but if you want something more discreet, consider using a glasses case or toiletries bag.

4. Keep them away from sharp objects

Be mindful of sharp objects when choosing a place to store your protection, especially if you're considering a toiletries bag. Storing condoms with personal care tools such as tweezers and nail scissors could easily pierce through condom packaging and poke a hole in the condom itself.

5. Regularly check expiry dates

Regardless of the method you choose for storing condoms, it's crucial to regularly check their expiry date. Condoms can weaken over time, making them more prone to breakage and, therefore, less effective against STIs and pregnancy.

So before using any condom, ensure you check the date on them first. The expiration date is typically imprinted on the cardboard outer packet and the foil or plastic wrapper.

6. Be careful when opening the condom

It might be easier said than done in the heat of the moment, but it's vital you take extra care when opening the packet. Don't be tempted to rip it open, especially with your teeth, and never open it with anything sharp such as scissors.

The best way to open one is to feel the rib of the condom, push this to the side, pull the foil packet open gently by the serrated edge, carefully remove the condom, and use it as instructed.

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