The infection risk from sex toys is real but entirely preventable. The pathways are well-understood; the precautions are straightforward.
How infections happen through toys
Bacterial contamination
Body fluids (vaginal, anal, oral) carry bacteria. On porous materials these bacteria embed in micro-pores; no cleaning method reaches them. Subsequent use re-introduces the bacteria, potentially causing:
- UTIs (urinary tract infections), especially after anal-to-vaginal cross-contamination.
- BV (bacterial vaginosis), disrupts vaginal microbiome.
- Skin infections from external use on broken skin.
Fungal contamination
Yeast (Candida) grows on porous materials and in moist toy storage. Thrush / candidiasis transmission via shared porous toys is documented.
Viral transmission
STI viruses (HSV-1, HSV-2, HPV) can survive on toy surfaces for hours to days. Sharing a contaminated toy between partners with different STI status risks transmission.
The risk-reduction protocol
1. Use body-safe materials
Non-porous materials can be sterilised; porous can't. See is jelly rubber safe.
- Body-safe: Platinum-cure silicone, borosilicate glass, 316L stainless steel.
- Not body-safe for shared use: TPE, TPR, jelly rubber, "skin-feel" materials.
2. Clean after every use
Warm water + fragrance-free antibacterial soap; air-dry completely. See can you sterilise a sex toy.
3. Sterilise between body parts
Most critical: between anal and vaginal use. Gut bacteria in the vaginal microbiome causes UTIs and BV.
- Same session: Use a condom on the toy and change between body parts; OR own separate toys for anal and vaginal.
- Different sessions: Wash and sterilise between.
4. Sterilise between partners
For shared toys (silicone, glass, steel): boil 3 minutes, top-rack dishwasher (no detergent), or 70% IPA wipe with water rinse.
For motorised toys: 70% IPA wipe on the silicone exterior; don't submerge.
5. Don't use with current infections
Skip toy use during active UTIs, BV, thrush, or STI outbreaks. The toy can re-introduce contamination as you recover.
NHS / UK guidance
NHS STI guidance covers transmission routes; Brook and FPA cover practical sexual health.
When to see a GP
- Persistent unusual discharge.
- Burning, itching, or rash that doesn't resolve.
- UTIs more than 3× per year.
- Visible sores or lesions.
UK GPs handle the conversation routinely. Sexual health clinics offer free testing and treatment without GP referral.