Can sex toys affect fertility? Mumbai doctors make startling revelation

With growing awareness around sexual wellness the use of sex toys has become increasingly common among individuals and couples However several myths continue to circulate regarding their potential impact on fertility often creating unnecessary confusion and anxietyIn reality sex toys are generally considered safe when used correctly and when made from bodysafe materials There is currently no scientific evidence to suggest that the use of sex toys directly affects fertility They do not interfere with sperm production egg quality ovulation or the ability to conceiveDr Sulbha Arora clinical director amp fertility specialist Nova IVF Fertility Andheri Mumbai says ldquoFertility is influenced by many factors including age hormonal balance overall health and underlying medical conditions such as polycystic ovary syndrome PCOS endometriosis or male factor infertility The use of sex toys does not play a role in these biological processesrdquoldquoHowever hygiene and product quality are important considerations Improper cleaning of sex toys can increase the risk of infections Bacterial vaginosis yeast infections candidiasis and urinary tract infections UTIs may occur if devices are not cleaned properly after use Recurrent infections if left untreated could increase the risk of pelvic inflammatory disease PID which in some cases may affect reproductive healthrdquo Adds Dr AroraDr Rita Modi Senior Consultant Fertility Health Specialist Motherhood Fertility amp IVF says ldquoSex toys are often used by many on a daytoday basis They are safe and may not directly hurt the fertility or interfere with ovarian function hormone levels or impact pregnancy Unfortunately it can be concerning when safety and hygiene protocols are not followed which is commonly seen in many people Failure to clean the device sharing toys mindlessly with friends improper storage and harsh usage can lead to vaginal infections such as bacterial vaginosis yeast infections or urinary tract infections UTIs that can harm reproductive health and overall wellbeing Many will be at risk of repeated infections if left untreated Some may also experience complications like pelvic inflammatory disease which will need immediate treatmentShe Donrsquot just go with the trend and use toys because they are much hyped If you wish to experiment then be cautious aware ensure safety choose bodysafe materials follow strict hygiene and avoid unsafe products that have sharp edges and can cause internal injuries Poorly made items may break during use and there can be potential lacerations Women experiencing discomfort pain or recurrent infections should seek timely gynaecological advice Make sure to go for products made from medicalgrade silicone borosilicate glass or stainless steel So take charge of your reproductive healthrdquoAdditionally irritation or minor injuries caused by improper use may lead to discomfort or infection and should be evaluated by a healthcare professional if symptoms persist Another concern is the use of lowquality or noncertified products made from unsafe materials which may contain chemicals that can irritate sensitive genital tissuesSafe Use TipsTo minimise risks and ensure safe use consider the following precautions1 Choose products made from bodysafe medicalgrade materials2 Always clean the device before and after every use according to manufacturer instructions3 Avoid sharing sex toys to reduce the risk of infection4 Store them properly in a clean dry place5 Do not use products that are damaged or worn out6 Seek medical advice if you experience pain irritation or unusual symptomsWith proper hygiene and responsible use sex toys can be a part of a healthy sexual life without posing a risk to fertility Being informed and following basic safety practices can help individuals make confident decisions about their sexual health without unnecessary worry