Sex toys are not just for masturbation, of course. Using a toy together with your partner increases the pleasure. It gives your sex life an extra dimension and that helps to counteract any boredom. But how safe is it to use the same sex toy together? And how do safely share a sex toy?
Are sex toys safe?
Of course, it starts with the question of whether it is safe to use a sex toy at all? In principle, sex toys are safe, provided you use them as the manufacturer intended. Unfortunately, not all sex toys are the same. For example, some materials are safer than others.
The material a toy is made of plays a large role in its safe use. Body-safe materials are those that are not porous by themselves and do not contain toxic substances. For example, jelly contains plasticizers, which are proven carcinogens. Rubber and certain plastics are porous and therefore a source of bacteria.
Therefore, always check what material a toy is made of. If the manufacturer does not clearly state it, it is better to err on the side of caution (and disregard that particular toy).
Can you get an STD or STI from a sex toy?
Yes, you can. Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STDs) and infections (STIs) are transmitted from one person to another through bodily fluids (semen, vaginal fluid) and blood. So, for example, if you share a dildo or a vibrator with someone else, without cleaning it in between, you are automatically exchanging bodily fluids. If one of you is infected, you are at risk.
You can avoid this by taking a few simple precautions:
- Always clean your toys properly
By properly cleaning your toy before and after use – even if you’ve only played with it – you prevent bacteria from growing. This is how you prevent an infection. You can use a toy cleaner for that. This is especially useful if you quickly want to clean your toy in between uses. In addition, every now and then you should clean your toy thoroughly under the tap (if your toy is waterproof) or with a damp cloth. - Consider a condom
If you are using your sex toy with a sex partner and want to do so in a completely safe way, consider putting a condom on it. Every time the toy changes users, you should put a new condom on it. This is the only way to avoid sharing bodily fluids unintentionally. - Test yourself
If you want to make sure you are healthy and don’t want to spread diseases, test yourself regularly. With the STD tests from Testalize Me, you can do this easily at home.
If you want to be 100% safe, it’s best not to share sex toys. Or not have sex at all. But then again, who wants that?
Why share sex toys?
Using a sex toy during masturbation or during sex with one or more partners, gives and other and new dimension to your / your sex life.
New or different sex is often more attractive and exciting than sex as you already know it. That’s why many people are looking for different and new ways to have sex. A sex toy can offer whole new possibilities. New ways to be stimulated. New positions. Double stimulation. Double pleasure. Especially with your partner, it can boost your sex life.
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