Careless disposal of used condoms isn’t simply dangerous hygiene observe. It might develop into a storehouse of infections, a supply of environmental air pollution, and a critical waste administration menace.
Like sanitary pads and diapers, condoms are additionally non-biodegradable and might take years to decompose, including to an already mounting sanitation drawback. With world male latex condom manufacturing alone estimated at greater than 10 billion yearly, accountable disposal turns into non-negotiable.
“The most secure strategy to eliminate a used condom is to wrap it securely in tissue paper, newspaper, a paper bag, or biodegradable waste paper and discard it in a closed dustbin,” says Dr Prashant Jain, Affiliate Director of Urology at PSRI Hospital. Nevertheless, he cautions that one ought to be cautious whereas eradicating the condom, and ensure to tie the open finish right into a knot to keep away from spillage of semen.
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A used condom could be wrapped in tissue paper, newspaper, paper bag, or biodegradable waste paper earlier than discarding in a closed bin (picture supply: freepik)
Are there any well being dangers from improper disposal of condoms?
“Condoms ought to by no means be left in open areas the place individuals, particularly youngsters, might by accident contact them,” Dr Jain warns. Used condoms comprise bodily fluids that may harbour micro organism, viruses, and different germs. “If somebody comes into direct contact with them, there’s a danger of an infection,” he notes. Whereas the opportunity of contracting a critical an infection from temporary contact could also be low, the danger nonetheless exists, particularly for “illnesses transmitted by means of physique fluids” similar to HIV.
Furthermore, improperly discarded condoms can entice flies, bugs, or rodents, thereby growing the danger of contamination. Additionally they pose an occupational hazard for sanitation staff, who might not at all times have satisfactory protecting gear to deal with any such waste.
Is it a good suggestion to flush condoms down the bathroom?
Dr Jain notes that it’s by no means a good suggestion to flush a condom down the bathroom. He clarifies that “condoms don’t dissolve in water and might block sewage methods.” This may result in plumbing injury and improve the danger of spreading waterborne illnesses.
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Moreover, flushed condoms might find yourself in rivers or oceans, the place marine animals can mistake them for meals, inflicting ecological hurt. “That is each an environmental and hygiene concern,” Dr Jain concludes.
DISCLAIMER: This text relies on data from the general public area and/or the consultants we spoke to. At all times seek the advice of your well being practitioner earlier than beginning any routine.
