HOW ARE CONDOMS TESTED?

Other than abstinence, the regular use of latex condoms offers the best protection against contracting HIV and other sexually transmitted diseases. If used perfectly, male/external condoms can be up to 98% effective at preventing pregnancy.

That being said, it only works if the condoms have been tested properly and are certain to perform the way they should.

Other than abstinence, the regular use of latex condoms offers the best protection against contracting HIV and other sexually transmitted diseases. If used perfectly, male/external condoms can be up to 98% effective at preventing pregnancy.

That being said, it only works if the condoms have been tested properly and are certain to perform the way they should.

Safety first

Condom production is a tightly regulated area, and that’s a good thing! It’s mandatory to test them thoroughly as they need to have ABSOLUTELY no holes, to be a reliable means of contraception. We examine them through various processes to guarantee their quality.

Bursting volume and pressure for elasticity

We measure at which volume and pressure the condom bursts to ensure sufficient flexibility of the material. To do it, the condom is inflated with air in a controlled environment until it bursts, we record the volume and pressure at which it explodes.

Electronic testing for holes

To make sure there are no punctures in the condom, we fill it with liquid and plunge it into a second liquid. An electric current is run through the liquid inside the condom. If any electric current is recorded in the liquid outside the condom, then the condom has a hole. When the condom has no hole, it acts as an insulator and the current can not pass.

Material uniformity and integrity

To produce condoms, we dip penis-shaped rods into a latex solution. If the mix is not homogenous, it might not deposit uniformly on the rod. Sometimes, areas can be thicker or thinner, making the condom less solid. We run a visual inspection of condoms to exclude the ones with issues. Also, some condoms can be filled with water and be examined for leakage.

Bacterial load

Condoms are non-sterile devices but should nevertheless be free from contamination and adulteration. This is achieved by manufacturing in a controlled environment with periodic monitoring to ensure no contamination and bioburden levels maintenance within acceptable limits. We measure the condoms’ bacterial load to make sure it remains within acceptable levels. It’s important to choose a lubricant that does not encourage bacterial growth for the 5 mandatory years of shelf life