Sex toys et prévention des ITSS : ce qu’il faut savoir cette Saint-Valentin

Sex toys are often considered “risk-free.” However, under certain conditions, they can play a role in the transmission of certain STIs.

Quick STI testing

Covered by RAMQ

Book an appointment

Covered by RAMQ

Valentine’s Day is often the perfect excuse to get closer, explore, and try something new. Whether you’re in a long-term relationship, starting something fresh, sharing intimacy with more than one partner, or enjoying solo time, sex toys have become a common and normal part of intimate life.

Vibrators, dildos, cock rings, and anal toys, some of which incorporate artificial intelligence, illustrate how much the world of sex toys (and sexuality in general) has evolved since the second half of the 20th century. According to several economic journals, the global sex toy market was estimated at over C$30 billion in 2022 and could exceed C$70 billion by 2030.¹

But like any sexual practice, the use of sex toys deserves to be discussed from the perspective of sexual health and STI prevention. At Prelib, we like to remind people of one simple thing: pleasure and prevention make a great couple!

Why Talk About Sex Toys and STIs?

Sex toys are often considered “risk-free.” However, under certain conditions, they can play a role in the transmission of certain STIs, particularly when they are shared, poorly cleaned, or used successively between different people or different orifices. ²

And, since most STIs are asymptomatic, this type of transmission can occur without anyone realizing it.

Bottom line: it’s not about avoiding sex toys, it’s about understanding the risks so you can enjoy them with peace of mind.

Can Any Sex Toy Pose a Risk for STIs?

It's not the toy itself that poses a risk, but how it's used. Sex toys that come into contact with vaginal, anal, or oral mucous membranes can, in certain contexts, contribute to the transmission of STIs. This includes vibrators, suction toys, dildos, anal sleeves, and other similar accessories.

The risk mainly increases when a toy is shared, used without proper cleaning, or used consecutively on different areas of the body, especially in the presence of bodily fluids. In contrast, a toy used solo, properly cleaned, and made from body-safe materials carries very little risk.

Can All STIs Be Transmitted Through Sex Toys?

STI Transmission Risk When Using Sex Toys Solo

Selon Hrisk assessment tool, using a sex toy on your own (without sharing it) is considered an activity for which there is no evidence of STI transmission risk. In other words, when a sex toy is used solo and not shared with another person, it is not a documented route of STI transmission.

However, the National Institute of Public Health emphasizes an important point: the use of sex toys can sometimes cause inflammation or microlesions of the mucous membranes. These minor irritations make the tissues more vulnerable to contamination if unprotected vaginal or anal penetration occurs afterwards.³

STI Transmission Risk When Sharing Sex Toys

When a sex toy is shared between partners, it is classified as a high-risk activity for STI transmission. risque élevé de transmission des ITSS. Dans ce contexte, le jouet peut servir de vecteur indirect entre les muqueuses vaginales, anales et parfois buccales, et peut transporter des sécrétions vaginales, du sperme et parfois du sang.

Sharing sex toys can promote the transmission of certain STIs:

herpes (HSV): transmission mainly occurs when lesions are present;
human papillomavirus (HPV): transmission possible through simple skin/mucous membrane contact;
syphilis transmission is possible especially in the primary and secondary stages, when there are lesions;
chlamydia to gonorrhea transmission possible via the transfer of secretions;
HIV, hepatitis B virus (HBV), and hepatitis C virus (HVC):risk present especially if there is blood, even in very small quantities.

Sex Toys Hygiene: The Basis of Prevention

Maintaining sex toys is not a technical detail, it is an essential preventive measure. It is generally recommended to clean sex toys before and after each use or change of context.⁴

A Matter of Materials

Before discussing cleaning, it's important to first consider the composition of sex toys, as disinfection methods vary depending on the materials used.

Sex toys made of non-porous materials (such as glass, stainless steel, hard plastic, or silicone without mechanical components) are easier to disinfect.⁵
For sex toys made of porous or or semi-porous materials (such as rubber, which is particularly porous), it is recommended to take extra precautions. As these toys are more difficult to clean, it is best to cover them with a condom to ensure safer use.⁶

If there is an electrical component, it is important to always remove the batteries before cleaning and never immerse electrical parts in water.

Disinfecting Your Toys

The generally recommended method is simple: warm water + mild soap (without fragrance, alcohol, or irritants) or a cleaner designed for sex toys. Rinse, clean gently, rinse again, then leave to dry completely.⁷

The choice of cleanser is less important than its composition: avoid scented products, alcohol, and bleach. Certain specialized brands or cleansing wipes can also do the trick. Club Sexu provides lots of recommendations right here.

Depending on the material, some toys (such as silicone or metal) can be boiled, but this method is not suitable for all sex toys, especially those with electronic components or made of porous materials.

Key takeaway: There is no universal cleaning method. It is important to always follow the manufacturer's recommendations and keep in mind that even proper cleaning does not eliminate all risks.

Condoms: An Additional Barrier to Reduce Risks

Cleaning is useful, but it is not the only strategy. That is why it is recommended to combine cleaning with other prevention strategies.

For added safety, it is recommended to use a condom, dental dam, or latex finger cover on sex toys, especially if they are shared between partners.⁸

Perks:

Reduces direct contact with mucous membranes and secretions.
Facilitates quick changes between partners or body areas.

Change the condom:

between two partners
between vaginal and anal use
each time the context changes

It's a simple habit that protects everyone, without spoiling the fun.

All Pleasure, No Sharing

It is entirely possible to have an intense and connected sexual encounter without sharing sex toys. As Club Sexu reminds us: “A good way to reduce the risk of STBBI transmission is to use toys alone, but together!”

This approach is particularly relevant in the context of new relationships, multiple partners, or when you want to reduce risks without giving up exploration and desire. Prevention doesn't have to be restrictive: it can be creative, intimate, and fully satisfying.

STI Screening: A Loving Gesture

Using sex toys is not a substitute for STI testing.

Since many STIs can be present without any symptoms, regular testing remains one of the most effective ways to take care of your sexual health. This is especially important when you change partners, explore new practices, or experience different relationship contexts.

Getting tested does not mean you have “done something wrong.” It is a responsible, caring, and conscious decision. It is choosing to take care of yourself and others.

In short

Sex toys can enrich your sex life, spark meaningful conversations, and boost pleasure, as long as they’re used with knowledge, care, and safety in mind. This Valentine’s Day, the team at Prelib, on te souhaite du plaisir éclairé, respectueux et sécuritaire. Parce que prendre soin de sa santé sexuelle, c’est aussi une forme de désir. 💖