However, this conclusion is based on many assumptions concerning biologic factors of the virus itself, such as viral infectiousness, the number of infectious sex partners, and the presence of genital ulcers. All of these factors are known or suspected to influence transmission and may explain the observed differences in sexual transmission in different parts of the world. Other risk factors in women, including estrogen use and menstrual bleeding, have been suggested, but not confirmed. The article tells us the FDA also tests imports. Imported condoms are required to pass the same tests as domestic condoms, so they should be equally safe.
Testing damages the condoms.
Consumers should carefully examine the condom package before it is opened. The condom should not be unrolled and examined before it is used, because this could damage it. However, the condom should be checked as it is unrolled on the penis. All condoms have either an expiration date or manufacturing date on the package. Condoms should not be used beyond their expiration date or more than 5 years after their manufacturing date.