When it comes to the topic of sex, it is often discussed openly between friends. They talk about who they are doing it with, how they are doing it, and how often they are doing it. But there’s an aspect of sex people don’t usually talk about, and that’s sex toys.
Sex toys are great, fantastic, and magnificent. Any consenting adult should be proud to own a sex toy. Sex toys have become part of pop culture, especially with the popularity of shows like Fifty Shades (almost all series) and Sex And The City.
A wider audience has now become familiar with sex toys, making them more accessible to those who may not have been aware of them before. Indeed, sex toys can spread happiness; this is because, with toys, happiness is spread in an easy and fun way.
Even though these vibrated, strapped-on and fresh-looking toys are used by many to stimulate sex, as a user (even as a non-user), have you ever thought if they are medically approved for use? Well, one thing is certain – sex toys can only be seen in specialist erotic shops.
To answer if sex toys are medically approved for use or not, as administrative agencies like the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), and the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) regulate consumer products, approval is still underway.
FDA mainly pay attention to products that fall under the category of medical devices, food, drugs, and cosmetics. Since sex toy manufacturers label their products “for novelty use only”, they tend to dodge stringent medical device regulations.
Though sex toys are subject to the CPSC’s novelty regulations, still, they don’t check or even carry out extensive testing to ensure that they’re safe for use. With that being said, there’s no need to panic if you’re eyeing sex toys for your use. All you have to do is to know your toys.
What do we mean by knowing your toys?
Sex toys are not medically approved for use yet because there’s no government regulation for them. Therefore, you need to do your homework on which materials are safe, and which are unsafe. For instance, some sex toy materials have been associated with long-term health issues. Phthalate plasticizers, found in some sex toys, can cause decreased fertility, breast cancer, obesity, and birth defects.
If you’re shopping for your favourite ones, look out for the ones that are phthalate-free and are made of silicone or other non-plastic materials. While there are no verifications on “phthalate-free” products, the indication is a good way to start. Also note that phthalates soften plastic, hence, bendable toys with a jelly-like feel can be suspicious.
In conclusion, sex toys are yet to be medically approved, but that doesn’t stop them from being used. While regulatory progress is being considered, be sure to use the safe ones.
Need to speak to a doctor? Book an appointment online.
