Condoms must go through a series of tests before they can be sold, mainly to ensure that they are durable. That being said, condoms are not tested for strength against the wet conditions, heat, or chemicals found in pools and hot tubs. Leading condom manufacturers confirm that there has not been any research conducted on how effective condoms are when used in water.
Condom manufacturers have placed warnings on their boxes cautioning that those who do not use condoms in a more customary way (any action other than typical vaginal sex in a non-water location), could compromise the effectiveness of a condom.
Church & Dwight Inc. of Trojan brand condoms asserts that Trojan condoms are not recommended for use in a pool or underwater because these conditions may compromise this product and/or cause slippage of the condom. The following statement is from a box of Trojan Condoms:
- "Any use of condoms for other than vaginal intercourse can increase the potential of damage to the condom."
Information on the Durex condom brand website, says “as far as we are aware, no research has been carried out into the performance of condoms when they are used underwater. It is possible that the risk of slippage, for example, might increase when used in such circumstances. Whilst salt in seawater would not have adverse effects on condom materials there is a strong possibility that the chemicals used in swimming pools (chlorine and ozone, for example) would.” The following is taken from a box of Durex condoms:
- "Non-Vaginal use of condoms can increase the potential of them slipping or being damaged."
