Response:

Like other products, condoms have an expiration date clearly marked on their packaging. Over time, the latex or polyurethane material weakens, loses elasticity, and becomes prone to tearing. When expired, condoms may develop microscopic tears not visible to the naked eye. Additionally, improper storage in hot, sunny places, or in wallets, handbags, or car compartments can degrade quality, making condoms more susceptible to damage.

Torn or damaged condoms can allow semen and sexually transmitted pathogens such as HIV, gonorrhea, syphilis, hepatitis B, and genital warts caused by HPV virus types 6 and 11 to pass through. This can lead to unintended pregnancies and disease transmission. Therefore, it is crucial to avoid using expired condoms and to store them in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight.

Following sexual activity, you should monitor your health closely. Pay attention to any signs such as fever, fatigue, painful urination, or ulcers or swelling in the genital area, and seek medical attention promptly if they appear. It is advisable to consult a reputable medical facility. Maintain a balanced diet, get enough sleep, abstain from sexual activity, avoid stress, late nights, alcohol, and stimulants. Your partner should also monitor her health and check for signs of pregnancy to ensure proper prenatal care if necessary.

Expired condoms can tear, allowing sexually transmitted pathogens to pass through and infect healthy individuals. Photo: Vecteezy

Among the mentioned diseases, hepatitis B and HPV-related genital warts have preventive vaccines. For hepatitis B, there are single vaccines and combined vaccines that also protect against hepatitis A. Adults need to complete three doses within six months, get tested before vaccination, and receive boosters when antibody levels decrease.

The HPV virus has numerous strains. Beyond causing genital warts, it can also lead to cervical, anal, and oropharyngeal cancers. Currently, Vietnam offers two HPV vaccines: Gardasil (protects against four types) and Gardasil 9 (protects against nine types). Gardasil 9 is administered to both males and females aged 9-45. Individuals aged 9 to under 15 receive two doses 6-12 months apart, while those aged 15-45 receive three doses within six months. As you are 26 years old, you would receive three doses within six months. Individuals already infected with one HPV strain should still get vaccinated to protect against other strains and reduce the risk of reinfection and complications.

Dr. Nguyen Van Mac Toan

Medical Manager, VNVC Vaccination System

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