What do you have on your nightstand? If you’re anything like us, you have a sex toy or two (or more) on hand. Sex toys are a great way for both individuals and couples to enhance pleasure and explore their sexuality, but they can also pose some health risks if mishandled—especially when it comes to vaginal infections .
Let’s dive into the connection between sex toys and vaginal infections, such as yeast infections, bacterial vaginosis (BV), urinary tract infections (UTIs), and sexually transmitted infections (STDs), and talk about what you can do to prevent these infections .
Sex toys and your vaginal health
Before we learn how sex toys can contribute to vaginal infections, it’s important to understand the natural balance of the vaginal environment. A healthy vagina maintains a pH of approx 3.8 to 4.5. This slightly acidic pH helps maintain a delicate balance of bacteria and yeast, which play a critical role in keeping the vagina free of infection. When this balance is disturbed, it can lead to infections such as yeast infections and bacterial vaginosis.
1. Yeast infections
A yeast infection, also known as vaginal candidiasis, is caused by an overgrowth of Candida, a type of fungus that naturally lives in the vagina. Symptoms usually include itching, burning, and a thick, white discharge. Yeast infections are extremely common — in fact, approx 75% of women will experience one in their lifetime! Fortunately, prescription antifungals can usually clear up a yeast infection quickly, often with just one dose.
How sex toys can help: If sex toys are not properly cleaned after use and if they are not made with body-safe materials, they can harbor Candida or other microorganisms that can be reintroduced into the vaginal environment, contributing to overgrowth and resulting infection. If possible, boiling sex toys is often the most effective way to disinfect them, but you can also use a Sex toy cleaning spray designed to clear harmful germs.
2. Bacterial Vaginitis (BV)
Bacterial vaginitis occurs when the balance of good and bad bacteria in the vagina is disrupted, leading to an overgrowth of harmful bacteria. It is the most common cause of vaginal symptoms in the US! BV is usually characterized by a strong, fishy odor, thin grayish discharge, and vaginal discomfort. Although not always sexually transmitted, BV can occur after sexual activity and is often caused by agents that disrupt the vaginal flora. The most effective treatment is often a round antibiotics — if the infection is not treated properly, it is easy for BV symptoms to recur until the root of the problem is treated.
How sex toys can help: Using unclean toys can introduce foreign bacteria into the vagina, which can disrupt the balance of healthy vaginal flora and contribute to the development of BV. Be sure to clean the toys thoroughly between uses!
3. Urinary tract infections (UTIs)
UTIs occur when bacteria enter the urethra and infect the urinary tract. Symptoms include a strong urge to urinate, pain or burning when urinating, and cloudy or bloody urine. If you’ve ever experienced these symptoms before, you know how uncomfortable they can be and know when you’re dealing with a UTI. UTIs are common, especially in people with sinuses, because of the short distance between the urethra and the anus. More than half of women will experience a UTI and 20% will experience recurrent UTIs. These infections can quickly become more serious kidney infections, so if you suspect you have a UTI, it’s important to connect with a healthcare provider and receive antibiotic treatment.
How sex toys can help: E. coli bacteria, often found in feces, is the most common cause of UTI. Sharing toys between vaginal and anal use without cleaning them thoroughly can transfer bacteria from the anus to the urethra, leading to a UTI.
4. Sexually Transmitted Infections (STDs)
STDs, such as chlamydia, gonorrhea, trichomoniasis, and human papillomavirus (HPV), are sexually transmitted infections. Symptoms vary depending on the infection, but may include itching, pain, abnormal discharge, sores, and swelling. While some people experience symptoms with STDs, most people will experience no symptoms at all! That’s why it’s so important to get tested often, especially if you’re sexually active. These sexually transmitted diseases can have long-term effects on your health and fertility if left untreated.
How sex toys can help: If sex toys are shared between partners without being cleaned or used with a barrier (such as a condom), they can act as a vector for STDs, passing the infection from one person to another. If you suspect you have an STD, contact a health care provider examination and treatment!
Best practices for safe sex toy use and hygiene
To minimize the risk of developing vaginal infections while using sex toys, it is necessary to follow strict safety and hygiene practices. Below are the basic guidelines to ensure your games are safe and enjoyable without compromising your vaginal health.
1. Choose the right materials
Sex toys are made from a variety of materials and some are safer for the body than others. Always choose toys made from non-porous materials that are safe for the body, such as silicone, stainless steel, glass or ABS plastic. These materials are less likely to harbor bacteria and are easier to clean.
- Porous materials such as rubber, jelly or PVC can trap bacteria even after washing, making them more difficult to clean and disinfect.
- Stay away from toys with creases, cracks or grooves that you won’t be able to clean well.
- Check for certifications like “phthalate-free” or “medical grade silicone” to ensure the material’s safety.
2. Proper cleaning before and after use
Thorough cleaning of sex toys before and after each use is vital to prevent infections. Follow these steps to make sure your games are as clean as possible:
- Warm water and mild soap: Most sex toys can be washed with warm water and mild, unscented soap. A good toy can be cleaned well without scrubbing!
- Toy Cleaners: Some sex toy manufacturers offer specialized cleaners that are safe for certain materials. These cleaners can be an extra step after washing with soap and water.
- Boiling or sterilizing: Non-electronic toys made from materials such as silicone, glass or stainless steel can be boiled for a few minutes to ensure they are fully disinfected.
- Air drying: After cleaning, allow the toy to air dry completely before storing. Storing a wet toy can lead to mold or bacteria growth.
3. Use barriers for shared games
If you plan to share sex toys with a partner or multiple partners, it is essential to use barriers, such as condoms, to prevent the spread of bacteria and infections. Place a new condom over the toy before use and change the condom if the toy is used in different areas (eg from anal to vaginal use). This prevents cross-contamination between different areas of the body, reducing the risk of infections such as UTIs or STDs.
4. Avoid alternating between vaginal and anal use
Bacteria from the anus can easily lead to vaginal infections or UTIs if introduced into the vaginal area. If you plan to use a toy for both vaginal and anal play, clean it well between uses or use a separate toy for each area.
- Double Penetration Games: If you use toys designed for simultaneous vaginal and anal use, make sure the toy is made of non-porous, body-safe materials and clean it thoroughly after each use.
5. Storage Matters
Proper storage of sex toys is just as important as cleaning them. Always store your toys in a clean, dry place, such as a special toy bag or case. Avoid storing toys in a damp environment as this can encourage the growth of mold or bacteria. If possible, store toys separately so that they do not come into contact with each other, especially if they are made of different materials that may deteriorate when they come into contact. This is extremely important when it comes to silicone toys: silicone can dissolve silicones, so silicone toys that are left touching each other will deteriorate over time! Most silicone toys come with a satin bag for storage so they can be left together safely in the same box or drawer.
6. Replace damaged toys
Sex toys are not meant to last forever. Over time, they can show wear and tear, which can create tiny cracks or crevices that can harbor bacteria. Check your toys regularly for any signs of damage and replace them if necessary. This is especially important for toys made from softer materials, which can deteriorate more quickly than those made from glass or stainless steel.
7. Pay attention to your body’s signals
If you notice any signs of infection such as unusual discharge, itching, burning or discomfort after using a sex toy, stop using it immediately and consult a healthcare provider. It is important not to ignore these symptoms, as early treatment can prevent further complications. Aside from infections, these symptoms can sometimes be signs of an allergy to a material, such as latex.
Sex toys can be a great way to explore your sexual desires, but proper care and hygiene is vital to ensure you stay healthy! By following the practices outlined above—such as choosing materials that are safe for the body, cleaning toys before and after use, and using barriers—you can minimize the risk of yeast infections, bacterial vaginosis, UTIs, and sexually transmitted diseases.
Always listen to your body and consult a healthcare professional if you experience any related symptoms. Have fun and play safe!
