Sex Toys Can Enhance Pleasure and Are Generally Safe When Used Appropriately
Doctors typically agree that using most sex toys during pregnancy is perfectly safe and does not increase risks of complications, unless a doctor has provided contrary guidance. Vibrators, dildos, and other toys can enhance sexual pleasure during pregnancy due to surging estrogen and progesterone levels. The increased blood flow and sensitivity of the clitoris and vagina during pregnancy makes stimulation from sex toys feel even more pleasurable for many women. Taking advantage of these heightened sensations through added stimulation from toys can lead to amazing experiences throughout the nine months of pregnancy. However, as always, proper precautions should be taken, such as following all instructions and ensuring toys are properly cleaned. Open communication with your doctor can help determine if any limitations on use are recommended in your specific case.
Adjust Intensity and Size of Toys to Match Changing Needs During Pregnancy
The most important guidance is to listen to your body's signals. If a vibrator feels too intense, try lowering the speed or switching to a less powerful model. If a dildo seems too large now, opt for a smaller size. The changes in your body during pregnancy may require adjusting toys you used regularly pre-pregnancy for continued comfort and pleasure. Discontinue use of anything that causes discomfort or does not feel good. Stay tuned into your body's feedback and allow your preferences to adapt as needed throughout the pregnancy journey.
Consult Your Doctor if Discomfort or Other Issues Arise
Promptly discontinue using any sex toys that cause discomfort or do not feel right, and contact your physician about any concerns that arise. Immediately stop use and notify your doctor if you experience bleeding, pain, or other worrying symptoms during or after use, even just to exercise caution. Maintaining open communication with your provider allows quick assessment of any problems and adjustments to your sex toy use as needed for your health and safety throughout pregnancy.
Proper Cleaning and Disinfection of Toys is Essential
Keeping sex toys clean is always important, but takes on heightened importance during pregnancy. Only use nonporous materials like medical grade silicone, stainless steel, aluminum, glass, or wood, and thoroughly disinfect toys after each use. Avoid toys made of elastomers like TPR/TPE, stone, rubber, or jelly, as their porous nature prevents adequate disinfection. Proper cleaning removes potentially harmful bacteria and helps prevent infections that could impact pregnancy health. Consult toy instructions and recommendations from reputable sources to ensure you utilize the most effective cleaning methods for each material type.
Proper Storage is Also Key
In addition to cleaning, proper storage helps prevent growth of mold, fungi, and bacteria on toys. Be sure to store cleaned toys in a sealed, opaque container away from heat and humidity. Improper storage in places like a hot car or humid bathroom can lead to ideal conditions for microbial growth on the surface, so keep this in mind when choosing storage locations.
Avoid Using Anal Sex Toys in Your Vagina
Unless you can effectively sanitize a nonporous, non-mechanical sex toy that has been used anally by boiling it, it is advisable to refrain from using it in your vaginal area.
Introducing fecal bacteria into the vagina can lead to vaginal infections, so it is crucial to clean your sex toys thoroughly and only use specific types, as outlined in our "How To Clean Sex Toys Guide" mentioned earlier.
It may be prudent to abstain from using anal sex toys altogether during pregnancy, as the increased pressure during pregnancy can easily lead to the development of hemorrhoids and bleeding.
Educate Yourself and Check Product Labels
Exercise caution when using lubricants during pregnancy, particularly those with stimulating ingredients or flavors. Opt for lubricants that are pH balanced and have appropriate osmolality for your vaginal health. For more information on suitable lubricants, refer to our comprehensive "Ultimate Lubricant Guide," which also covers lubricants suitable for fertility and pregnancy.
Avoid Hazardous Sex Toys and Porous Elastomers
While it is essential to steer clear of sex toys containing harmful chemicals like phthalates (which we do not offer), it is equally crucial to avoid using porous sex toys.
Take It Easy
Dildos are typically more rigid than a penis, so make sure you are not thrusting too hard or quickly. Also, avoid any dildos that are long enough to hit your cervix and focus more on G-spot stimulation which is only 2.5 to 3 inches on the top of the vagina. In addition, don't be surprised if your nipples are too sensitive for stimulation, as pregnancy can make them especially sensitive.
If you are trying different sexual positions or role-play through things like BDSM, then make sure to play gently as joints are looser during pregnancy. You may unintentionally overstretch or injure yourself by being too rough.
Doctor's Advice: No Intercourse or Penetration
If your doctor advises against vaginal penetration, you may consider asking whether clitoral stimulation using a vibrator is permissible or even using a wand vibrator for a back massage.
Conclusion
Ensure that you have a conversation with your doctor about any concerns related to sex toys. There is no shame in experiencing sexual pleasure during your pregnancy. It can be a source of relaxation and may offer physical comfort and relief during this period when your body undergoes numerous remarkable changes.