Link to MamasHealth.com
MamasHealth.com Home
Sexual Toys

Choosing a vibrator
Facts and myths
Introduce a toy
Jealous of vibrator
New partner, same toys?
Safety
Types of sex toys

Links

Email Mama

Bolas Chinas

Better orgasms
Boyfriend refuses to wear a condom
Dirty talk
Erotic dancing
Relationships



 

Sex Toy Safety

While safety may be the last thing on your mind when you purchase a new sex toy, safety is certainly an important consideration. It’s easy to get wrapped up in the thought of a new experience, leading many women and men to forget about the things that matter the most. Every year, various sex toys are added to the unsafe list. Some sex toys are pulled from store shelves. It pays to be cautious or else you and your partner could end up getting more than you bargained for.

Although there is no need to panic, safety should become a part of your sex toy mentality. If you stick to the basic, tried-and-true toys, such as vibrators, the signs may be obvious. Certain types of plastic start to break down over time, so inspect your vibrator regularly and toss it out if it suddenly presents a hazard. Silicone is widely regarded as the most beneficial material, and with good reason; it warms up quickly and it lasts a long time.

Concerns have also been raised regarding the safety of other materials. While silicone is believed to be safe, many rubber toys contain phthalates, an industrial compound that has become infamous for its potentially toxic capabilities. If you are unsure about the ingredients used in the manufacturing of a particular toy, stay away from items made with jelly rubber, as they often contain phthalates.

Once you have found a sex toy that passes your safety test, be sure to consider any allergies that you or your partner may have. Latex allergies are fairly common and because some sex toys are manufactured with latex, it’s important that you read all components (or contact the manufacturer, if unsure) before diving in. In this case, silicone will prove to be one of your best bets.

You should also be cautious about allergies to cleansers, which can irritate skin. If you or your partner have sensitive skin, it might be wise to avoid commercial and anti-bacterial cleansers and stick to the dependable soap and water routine. To prevent any unnecessary mishaps from occurring, stop using any toys that cause irritation.

While many manufacturers are reliable, it pays to use some good common sense. For example, if you purchase a toy designed for anal use that is made of hard plastic and appears to be quite large, you may be better off exploring your options. The problem with sex toys is that once you get caught up in the moment, your sense of judgement begins to fail you. Decide ahead of time what toys will be used where, and stick to the rules.

Health Topics:

10 Simple exercise Secrets you can do at home

Good Bye Anorexia: My personal story

What no one will tell you about tummy tuck surgery

Green Living: Eco-friendly ways to make money during a recession

Foods for weight loss

Finding time for sex

Surviving on 1 income

How to deal with a stubborn husband

Financial health

Information obtained from MamasHealth.com™ should not be used as a substitute for professional medical care or attention by a qualified practitioner, nor should it be inferred as such. Always check with your doctor if you have any questions or concerns about a specific condition.

Use of this web site constitutes acceptance of the Terms of Use.
Contact us: PO Box 2170, Pasadena, CA 91102-2170

©2000 - 2009 MamasHealth, Inc.™. All rights reserved

Link to MamasHealth.com