I Have Used An Expired Water-based Lube On A Latex

Posted on Sat, 1 Jun 2019

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Sat, 1 Jun 2019 Answered on

Last reviewed on

Question : I have used an expired water-based lube on a latex male condom. The lube seemed to be fine (no odor). I'd like to know if it can damage/weaken the condom such that the condom becomes ineffective as a barrier to STI infections like HIV, HSV, etc.? The condom was used during the entire act and it was not broken at the end.

Thanks!

Answered by Dr. Dr.Dorina Gurabardhi (34 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
If the condom stayed intact during intercourse you should not be worried.

Detailed Answer:
Hello and Welcome to ‘Ask A Doctor’ service. I have reviewed your query and here is my advice.

The expired condoms are more likely to break.

But if the condom stayed intact during the intercourse there is no need to be worried.

Usually the condoms are effective as a barrier for STD infections up to five years after the expiration date.

Hope I have answered your query. Let me know if I can assist you further.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Raju A.T

Follow up: Dr. Dr.Dorina Gurabardhi (1 hour later)

Thank you for your feedback.

However, as I said, the lube was expired, not the condom. Your answer supposed that the condom expired which is not the case. The water based lube was expired.

Answered by Dr. Dr.Dorina Gurabardhi (13 hours later)

Brief Answer:
There is no possibility that the expired lube damage the condom.

Detailed Answer:
Hi again dear,

I am sorry, I misunderstood the question.

Water base lubricants may change the color, odor or consistency after the expiration date.

There is no probablility that the lube can damage the condom and make it ineffective.

So, I suggest you not to worry.

Hope it helps.

Take care dear,

Dr.Dorina Gurabardhi

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Prasad