Can you contract an STI from a sex toy? The answer: Yes, but it doesn’t happen spontaneously. For an STI transmission through a sex toy to occur, it must have been previously used by someone with an STI and inadequately cleaned before your use.
The sex toy doesn’t directly give you an STI; rather, it serves as a vehicle for infection. That’s why it’s important to choose a safe and clean sex toy, welcome to buy safe female toys made of medical grade silicone from rosetoy website.
What diseases are spread through sex toys
Various STIs, transmitted through bodily fluids or skin-to-skin contact during sexual activity, can be spread through shared sex toys. If a sex toy carrying blood, semen, vaginal secretions, or other bodily fluids from one person comes into contact with the mucous membranes of another person, transmission of the virus is possible. For example, using a sex toy immediately after someone experiencing a herpes outbreak might expose you to the virus.
It’s not solely STIs that can be transmitted via sex toys. Yeast infections, bacterial vaginosis, or urinary tract infections (UTIs) can also spread through their use. Stubbs mentions instances where using a sex toy without proper cleaning after someone with bacterial vaginosis or a yeast infection could result in infection transmission.
Moreover, even if the other person doesn’t have an infection, bacteria transferred from their genital area can disrupt vaginal pH, leading to an infection. Additionally, using a sex toy in the anus and then in the vagina or near the penile opening can cause such infections.
You can also transmit an STI or infection to yourself
Imagine having bacterial vaginosis, using a vibrator without proper cleaning, receiving antibiotic treatment, clearing the infection, and then reusing the sex toy. This scenario raises the potential for self-reinfection with the toy.
The same applies to bacterial STIs. For instance, having vaginal gonorrhea, using a toy vaginally, then using it to stimulate your anus can result in self-transmitted anal gonorrhea. Unpleasant, right?
Material Matters
The likelihood of transmitting an STI via a sex toy depends on its cleanability.
Understanding Porous and Nonporous Sex Toys
Porous sex toys possess microscopic holes that can trap bacteria, soap, dust, and perfume even after washing.
Porous materials include:
Thermoplastic rubber (TPR)
Thermoplastic elastomer (TPE)
Latex
Polyvinyl chloride (PVC)
Jelly rubber
Nonporous materials, like silicone, pyrex, ABS plastic, glass, and stainless steel, are easier to clean thoroughly.
If Sharing, Opt for Nonporous Toys
When sharing a toy, choose nonporous materials to allow proper cleaning between users. Alternatively, cover the toy with a condom and change it before each user.
For Porous Toys, Use a Condom
When using porous toys, apply a latex, polyurethane, or polyisoprene condom each time the toy touches a new person.
Condoms made from animal skin do not offer protection against STIs. Also, use silicone or water-based lubricants, as oil-based ones can damage latex condoms.
Applying a condom to non-phallic-shaped toys might feel awkward. Tying off excess slack or using a glove or non-microwavable saran wrap can help.
For specific toys like penis-strokers, opt for separate toys per user. Some strokers, usually made of porous rubber, offer a soft texture but may not be ideal for sharing due to their material’s nature.
Couples who are fluid-bonded may share certain toys, but for others, it’s best to use separate ones to prevent infections.
Consider alternatives like the Rose Toy, made of medical grade silicone, for a safer and more hygienic experience.
Cleaning Your Sex Toys
Irrespective of your toy’s material, thorough washing before and after each use is essential. The cleaning method varies based on the toy’s material.
For nonporous, non-motorized toys, you can use the dishwasher, but not alongside food items. Run a separate load specifically for your sex toys using warm water only.
Avoid using dishwasher detergent as it may contain harsh chemicals and fragrances, leading to irritation or infections, especially for sensitive body parts.
Consider Using a Sex Toy Cleaner
Water-based sex toy cleaners could be gentler than regular hand soaps. And it can be cleaned more thoroughly, which will be great if you want to clean your sex toys more deeply. Please remember to rinse your sex toy with water again after cleaning, this will wash away any residual cleaner.
Remember to Dry and Store Your Toy Properly
Drying toys thoroughly to prevent bacteria from thriving in moisture. Pat dry the toy with a clean towel or allow it to air dry.
Ensure proper storage post-cleaning. Many toys include satin stowaway pouches, which help shield them from dust, debris, and pet hair between uses.
When to Clean Your Toys
The best practice is to clean your toys both before and after use.
If you and your partner are fluid bonded, you can wait until both of you have used it before washing, unless one of you is sensitive to infections. Otherwise, clean it between each use.
Although cleaning before use might seem excessive, it’s a good habit. Even after prior washing, giving the toy another clean before playtime is advisable. This can prevent pet fur or debris from interfering with your play!
Responding to Suspected STI Exposure
Get tested promptly if you suspect exposure. Inform your doctor about the potential exposure and request a comprehensive panel of tests. If you’re uncertain about the specific exposure, share that with your doctor.
Additionally, schedule another test in 2 to 3 weeks or as per your doctor’s recommendation since some STIs don’t show up immediately.
Reminder: Most STIs don’t exhibit symptoms. It’s important to get tested annually and between partners, if applicable.
Key Points
Transmission of STIs is possible during sexual activities, including sharing sex toys.
To minimize transmission risks:
Discuss STI status and preferred safer sex practices.
Use a new condom for each user of the toy.
Choose nonporous toys and clean them between users.
