Safety of dildos - A Guide to Sex Toy Safety
Safety of dildos - A Guide to Sex Toy Safety
Dildos are used to provide a feeling similar to sex. A dildo can be used vaginally, anally or even orally, but just as you would take certain precautions in protecting yourself with a partner, you should use your dildo safely as well.
Playing with your dildo can be fun . . . if you remember to the following:
Sexually Transmitted Diseases – They are not only a threat when getting yourself off with a partner. These diseases are transmitted through sexual fluids that can get trapped in the porous or micro-porous (PVC and real skin-like) materials that some dildos are made from. To be safe, don’t share your toy. If you are going to share, use a condom (see bullet 5) and always make sure you should give your toy the most thorough cleanse you can.
Bacteria – Always clean your dildo off before moving from vaginal to anal play and vice versa. Microscopic bacteria that keep those places healthy might not belong in each other’s backyards and may cause an infection.
Size – We are all intrigued by size, but it is important to know that some larger dildos are intended only for visual appeal and should not be used for penetration. Avoid the temptation, because using these might leave you feeling a bit uncomfortable.
Shape – Dildos without a flanged (flat and wide) base or other mechanism to control depth should not be used anally. These dildos can slip too far into the anus and can be difficult to remove without medical assistance. You won’t want your pleasure filled night to end in the emergency room.
Lubricants – Silicone-based lubricants are not compatible with Silicone dildos. The lubricant dissolves the surface of the toy which make sit sticky and difficult to use. Be careful when using a condom too. Pre-lubbed condoms almost always have a silicone-base lubricant in them. When covering your dildo go for a condom sans lubricant. Otherwise use a water-based lubricant.
Health Problems – Certain dildos, especially those made of PVC or “jelly rubber” contain chemical compounds. PVC contains compounds called Phthalates, which are used to make the plastic soft and flexible. In turn, these compound also have been linked to health problems such as cancer and pre-natal defects. The Phthalates enter the body through mucous membranes in the mouth, anus or vagina. To protect yourself always use a condom when playing with these types of dildos.
Defects – While the chances of receiving a chipped or broken dildo are quite low, there is no such thing as unbreakable glass or indestructible materials. Thoroughly check all toys before purchase and if you feel uncomfortable with anything bring it back. When purchasing any dildo make sure that it is securely packed and the sealing hasn’t been tampered with. As for glass dildos, check that they are made of borosilicate glass, a material that can withstand up to 3,000 lbs in extreme heat or cold.
Now that you know the safe way to play, you should be well on your way to purchasing the perfect toy for yourself. There are a variety of shapes, sizes, colors and textures out there that will send you rocketing of to space and back for more!