Why do spermicide-coated condoms have a two or three year shelf life, as opposed to condoms that have a five-year shelf life? Is this because the latex will deteriorate more rapidly with the spermicide on it, or does the expiration date just mean that is when the spermicide is no longer effective?
(I know spermicide-coated condoms are virtually useless anyway, but I was just curious. I have some around that expire in a year, and I was wondering why.)
Thank you!
Posts: 71 | From: USA | Registered: Nov 2006
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I tried doing some research on the half-life of Nonoxynol-9 itself, but wasn't able to find anything, so I can't comment on the shelf-life of the spermicidal lubricant itself (though that is definitely probable).
I'd reckon, due to the nature of spermicide, it's more likely a spermicidal lubricant will break down condom latex faster than just the conditions a normally lubricated condom endures.
-------------------- Jean aka dailicious Scarleteen Volunteer Love us? Want to keep us in your lives and hearts? Give what you can! Posts: 3382 | From: Denver, Colorado | Registered: Mar 2005
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