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Understanding the Dangers: How Uncleaned Sex Toys Can Lead to Infections, According to Experts

Understanding the Dangers: How Uncleaned Sex Toys Can Lead to Infections, According to Experts
Published on, 04 June, 2024. Answered by Dr. Nopporn Apiwattanakul and Verified by Dr.Galen Team
Patient Question

Hello Doctor,

Today, I purchased my first sex toy ever. It's a silicone vagina masturbation cup from a Chinese company, and it was really cheap. I've never used sex toys before, so I used it without cleaning it properly. When it arrived, I just opened the package and used it. However, after searching online, I found recommendations to clean sex toys even before using them as new toys. Now, I'm paranoid about the possibility of the sex toy being infected with a virus, potentially even the AIDS virus. I'm really worried and I can't stop overthinking it.

Hello, Thank you for reaching out to Dr. Galen. I understand your concerns, and I'll address them with care. Firstly, I want to reassure you that the risk of contracting HIV or any other virus from using a sex toy, especially in the scenario you described, is indeed quite low. However, I commend your vigilance in seeking clarification on this matter. If you're still feeling anxious, I strongly recommend that you schedule an appointment with your doctor for an anti-HIV checkup. This step can provide you with the reassurance and peace of mind you seek. It's important to note that HIV testing typically involves a period of waiting after potential exposure before accurate results can be obtained. If it has been at least two weeks since your last contact with the sex toy, and you haven't engaged in any other activities that could pose a risk of HIV transmission, a negative test result would be highly reassuring. This timeframe allows for the detection of HIV antibodies if they are present in your system. However, if you've had recent contact with the sex toy (within the past three days) and there's evidence to suggest that it may have been contaminated with HIV, it's crucial to seek medical attention promptly. In such cases, your doctor may recommend post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP), which involves taking medication to reduce the risk of HIV infection after potential exposure. In summary, while your concerns are valid, it's essential to approach the situation with a level head. Taking proactive steps such as seeking medical advice and undergoing HIV testing can provide you with the clarity and support you need. Remember to prioritize your health and well-being, and don't hesitate to reach out if you have any further questions or concerns. Thank you for entrusting us with your query. Warm regards


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About Dr. Nopporn Apiwattanakul

Dr. Nopporn Apiwattanakul

Infectious Disease Specialist


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