Sex Toys

Sex toys can be a fun way part of your sex life!  They can be used when you’re alone or when you’re with a partner. If you use sex toys, the key thing to remember is to keep them clean.

Who uses sex toys?

• Sex toys can be used no matter what your gender or sexual identity is.
• People use sex toys when they are single and/or when they are in relationships.
• People use sex toys on their own and/or with their partner.

What kinds of sex toys are there?

• Sex toys include: vibrators, dildos, anal toys (including anal* beads), strap-on penises*, fleshlights and more! There are so many different kinds of sex toys that we can’t describe them all here, you could even make some yourself if you’re feeling creative. For more info, visit a sex shop or check online. Many sex shops have friendly staff who will be happy to answer all your questions!

What should I look for in a sex toy?

• A safe sex toy should be smooth, unbreakable, clean, comfortable in size and have a flared base so that it can be gripped and removed easily.
• Avoid objects with small holes or jagged edges that can scratch or hurt you.

Will sex toys expose me to STIs?

• If you’re sharing sex toys with others, you could be exposed to STIs.
• Use a fresh condom each time a toy is used and always clean and disinfect your sex toys, especially if they have been placed in the anus (butt hole).

How can I clean my sex toy?

• Always keep your toys clean, especially after they have been exposed to someone else’s blood, semen, vaginal* fluids, etc. This helps to avoid spreading STIs.
• Most toys can be cleaned with soap and warm water. Some can even go in the dishwasher.
• To be sure, check the directions that came with your specific toy.

Can pregnancy happen from sex toys?

• If the sex toy comes into contact with semen and then goes near or in the vagina soon after, there is a slight risk that sperm would be transferred and pregnancy might occur.
• For more on how pregnancy happens, check out How Pregnancy Happens [Link].

Useful Tips

Don’t ever put a toy or body part into anyone’s vagina that has been used in anyone’s butt without washing or putting a new condom on it first. Moving bacteria from the butt into the vagina can cause an infection. Use flexible objects with a flared base for butt insertion. Talk with your partner first before using sex toys and find out what you are each looking for. When using sex toys, talk to your partner about what feels good and what doesn’t.

If you have questions about this topic, feel free to contact one of our peer educators. [Link]

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*We know that these aren’t the words everyone uses for their bodies (eg. trans folks), and support you using the language that feels best for you.

Last Edited: May 2020