That which is expected of a condom today is the highest quality and safety both in terms of contraceptive efficacy and protection against AIDS and other sexually transmitted diseases.
Currently, condoms are produced, sold and distributed in accordance with European standard EN 600:1996, which establishes minimum quality requirements and prohibits the sale of products that do not comply with these requirements.
Each pack of condoms is marked with an expiration date, which must be respected. Expired condoms must be thrown out unused. Generally, condoms have a shelf life of about 5 years from the production date, unless they have been exposed to sunlight, heat, excessive moisture or oils. Normally, manufacturers subject their condoms to very stringent tests to make sure that they comply with national and international standards. This procedure greatly lowers the risk of manufacturing defects (<0.1%).
