Can a sex toy injury happen? If so, here’s what to do

can sex toy cause injury

Sex toys can be a great way to spice things up in the bedroom or anywhere else. Using sex toys can also guarantee a range of benefits. However, people are often worried about being hurt by their toys. First-time users might wonder if their toy will end up causing more pain than pleasure. So, what is the deal with sex toy use and injuries? 

Fortunately, sex toy injuries are very rare. American researchers found that although injuries with sex toys are becoming a bit more common, the average incidence was less than five in one million

What is more common is people getting hurt while improvising with household items like bottles, bananas, or brushes. A friendly reminder that household items are not designed as toys and often cause injuries. 

These are the most common sex toy injuries

Although injuries are rare, they do occur. Some of the injuries that can occur with sex toys include:

  • Sex toys stuck in the anus or vagina
  • Cuts from pinpoint stimulation sex toys 
  • Burst blood vessels from overuse (or incorrect usage) of penis, vulva, nipple, and clitoris toys

Here’s what to do if you have a sex toy injury

Once you notice an injury, you should discontinue any sexual activity and assess the situation. Here are some steps you could take:

Something is stuck in your butt region

If an object is stuck in your anus, then you need to see a doctor. The butt is the end of a canal that leads all the way to your mouth. Any attempts to remove the object could potentially drive it further into your gut. And if an object gets too far up, it could lead to the need for an invasive procedure. The best course of action in this situation is to seek medical attention immediately.

Something is stuck in your vagina

If something appears to be stuck in your vagina, there is no need to be afraid. The vagina has an endpoint — called the cervix — that prevents objects from traveling past it. Anything that appears to be stuck in the vagina can usually safely be removed with some lube.

If something appears to be stuck, relax, apply generous amounts of lubricant, and gently pull it out. You could also ask your partner to help you. Still have any difficulties or experiencing pain? Then seeing a doctor is best. 

Experience an allergic reaction to any lubricant, barrier, or oil

First things first discontinue use at once. Check the instructions for advice and follow them.

If the reaction causes intense burning, severe discomfort, or pain, then see a doctor as soon as possible.

Have bleeding or bruising

Any bleeding from any cuts should be addressed immediately. Rinse the area with clean water and apply a cold compress (such as a frozen washcloth). 

If you feel sore from bruising around the butt or vagina, you can also sit in a sitz bath. Going without underwear will keep the area dry and help you heal without friction. If the bleeding worsens or the pain is severe, then seek medical attention. 

3 tips to prevent sex toy injuries

To prevent injuries from sex toys, here are a few precautions you can take:

1. Follow the instructions. 

Always use the toys the way they were intended to be used. Read the instructions that come with each toy prior to use and follow them to avoid injuries. 

Do not insert any toy into your butt or vagina that was not designed for that purpose. And don’t use a toy on your bare skin if the instructions call for lubrication. Finally, remember to wash toys between uses and never go between the anus and vagina in the same usage.

2. Use toys made of body-safe materials. 

Using toys made of body-safe materials is particularly important when a toy is being inserted into the butt or vagina. If you are using toys on your arms, breast, or other parts of your body, they don’t come into contact with body fluids. 

However, toys that can be inserted into the body are different. They can come into contact with bodily fluids and spread germs if they are not body-safe.  Some body-safe materials include stainless steel, borosilicate glass, medical-grade silicone, and ABS Plastic.

3. Be gentle with your body.

It can be tempting to push your toy to new limits, but this can often lead to injuries. Be gentle with yourself, especially when using an unfamiliar sex toy. Give yourself time to explore the possibilities and ease into its pleasures. If you are with a partner, make up a safe word so if anything does feel uncomfortable or unpleasurable, you can say the safe word and the item will be removed safely before any injuries occur. 

The good news is that sex toy injuries are rare and often preventable. The risk of injury should not put you off trying them out and enjoying them to their full extent.

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