THE FLAWED CONDOM
Naval Research Laboratory (NRL) researchers, using powerful electron
microscopes, have found that new latex, from which condoms are fabricated,
contains "maximum inherent flaw[s]" (that is, holes) 70 microns in
diameter. (9)
These holes are 700 times larger than the HIV-1 virus. There are pores in
latex, and some of the pores are large enough to pass sperm-sized
particles. Carey, et al., observed leakage of HIV-sized particles through
33%+ of the latex condoms tested. In addition, as Gordon points out in his
review, the testing procedures for condoms are less than desirable. United
States condom manufacturers are allowed 0.4% leaky condoms (AQL). Gordon
states, "The fluctuations in sampling permits many batches not meeting AQL
to be sold." In the United
States, 12% of domestic and 21% of imported batches of condoms have failed
to meet the 0.4% AQL. (10)
9."Anomalous Fatigue Behavior in Polysoprene," Rubber Chemistry and
Technology, Vol. 62, #4, Sep.-Oct. 1989.
10.Collart, David G., M.D., loc. cit.