A guide to healthy use of sex toys: Science, safety and self-care

In today’s pursuit of a high-quality life, sex toys are no longer a private and taboo topic. They have become an essential tool for enhancing intimate experiences and exploring one’s bodily sensations. However, if used improperly, they can not only fail to provide pleasure but also pose health risks. From product selection to usage methods, from cleaning and maintenance to taboos, every aspect is closely linked to health. The following comprehensive health guide will help you enjoy the wonderful experiences of sex toys in a scientific and safe manner.

First, safety is the key, choose the right product is the key

In the vast market of sex toys, ensuring product quality is the first step towards healthy use. When selecting materials, prioritize medical-grade silicone, ABS resin, and glass, which are all safe options. Medical-grade silicone is soft and skin-friendly, hypoallergenic, heat-resistant, and easy to clean. ABS resin has a moderate hardness and is commonly used for making structurally stable sex toys. Glass not only offers a unique texture but also provides a different sensory experience through temperature changes, and it is non-toxic, harmless, and easy to sterilize.

Second, meticulous care is indispensable before and after use

Pre-use cleaning and disinfection are crucial to prevent bacterial growth and infection. For newly purchased sex toys, the first cleaning should be conducted strictly according to the product manual. Most silicone and ABS resin products can be cleaned with a mild neutral cleaner and warm water, ensuring all crevices and corners are thoroughly cleaned. After cleaning, rinse thoroughly with running water to avoid any residue from the cleaner. Then, disinfect the product using 75% medical alcohol or a specialized toy disinfectant. Spray the disinfectant evenly on the surface of the product, wait for a few minutes, then dry it with a clean towel or paper towel. Store the product in a well-ventilated and dry place, away from direct sunlight.

During use, using condoms and lubricants correctly can further enhance safety and comfort. Condoms not only effectively prevent the spread of bacteria and viruses, reducing the risk of sexually transmitted infections, but also prevent semen and vaginal secretions from coming into direct contact with sex toys, making post-coital cleaning easier. When selecting condoms, pay attention to their expiration date and quality to avoid using damaged or expired products. Lubricants reduce friction, preventing skin damage caused by dryness and enhancing comfort. Water-soluble lubricants are a common choice as they are easy to clean and do not damage sex toys; silicone-based lubricants, while providing long-lasting lubrication, should not be used with silicone sex toys to avoid corrosion.

After use, it is crucial to clean promptly. Residual body fluids and secretions can serve as a breeding ground for bacteria. If not cleaned in time, they can easily cause infections during the next use. The cleaning process is similar to before use: first, rinse off any dirt with water; then, thoroughly clean with a cleaner; and finally, disinfect and dry. Store the cleaned and dried items in a clean, cool, and dry place, away from other items. Using a dedicated storage bag or box can prevent dust and bacterial contamination, while also protecting your privacy.

Third,Contraindications for use in special periods and under health conditions

During special periods such as menstruation, pregnancy, and postpartum, women’s bodies are more vulnerable, with a weakened immune system. Therefore, it is important to be extra cautious when using sex toys during these times. During menstruation, the endometrium sheds, and the cervix is slightly open, making it easier for bacteria to enter the vagina through sex toys, which can lead to infections. Thus, it is advisable to avoid using sex toys during this time. For pregnant women, especially in the early and late stages of pregnancy, improper use of sex toys can stimulate the uterus, causing uterine contractions and increasing the risk of miscarriage or premature birth. It is not recommended to use sex toys unless under a doctor’s guidance. Postpartum women’s reproductive systems need time to recover, and using sex toys too soon can affect wound healing. It is recommended to wait until the body has fully recovered and to have a doctor check that there are no issues before using sex toys.
 Furthermore, when the body suffers from reproductive system diseases such as vaginitis, urethritis, or cervicitis, or when there is skin damage or allergies, one should immediately stop using sex toys. In a diseased state, the reproductive system’s defenses are weakened, and using sex toys can increase the risk of infection and delay recovery. Contacting sex toys with damaged skin can cause pain and may allow bacteria to enter the body through the wound, leading to more serious issues. Once the disease is cured and the body has fully recovered, one should resume using sex toys but ensure proper cleaning and disinfection.