Toxic Microplastics Are Everywhere, Including in Sex Toys: Study

A new study led by researchers from Duke and Appalachian State universities has delved into an unexpected source of microplastic exposure: sex toys.

The research sheds light on the potential risks associated with using various types of sex toys, emphasizing the need for consumers to make informed decisions.

Microplastics in Sex Toys

Microplastics, which are tiny plastic particles, have been found to pose potential health risks to humans. They can enter the body through contaminated food, water, and air, accumulating over time.

These particles often carry harmful chemicals from the environment, exposing individuals to toxins. Additionally, microplastics might penetrate human tissues, potentially causing inflammation and other physiological responses.

The research spearheaded by Joana Sipe and Christine Hendren now examines the release of microplastic particles from four types of sex toys commonly used by American adults: anal toys, beads, dual vibrators, and external vibrators.

Given the intimate and permeable nature of the body parts these toys interact with, the study aims to raise awareness about potential health hazards that users may not be considering.

The findings, which will be discussed at the 2023 Society for Risk Analysis Annual Conference in Washington, D.C. next month, highlight the varying degrees of micro-and-nano-plastic release from different types of sex toys.

Notably, the study identified the anal toy as releasing the highest number of particles, followed by beads, dual vibrators, and external vibrators.

Presence of Phthalates in Sex Toys

In addition to the concern over microplastic release, the study draws attention to the presence of phthalates in the tested sex toys. Phthalates are known endocrine disruptors, and their levels were found to exceed hazard warnings in all examined sex toys.

That raises further questions about the potential health implications associated with the use of these products. The study employed a standardized abrasion machine to simulate the real-time breakdown and release of microplastics and nanoplastics from sex toys.

Subsequent analysis using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) has provided insights into the composition of the released particles. The researchers emphasized the lack of sufficient risk assessment or management for sex toys despite their widespread use among American adults.

The study prompts a call for more investigations into the potential health risks associated with sex toys, especially considering the presence of chemicals like phthalates that exceed exposure limits set by regulatory authorities.

In conclusion, the researchers advocate for a proactive approach to public health protection. They said: "We assert that since the measured presence of phthalates in our small sample size exceeds the exposure limit for the same chemicals in the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) regulations in children's toys..., investigations into whether or not the risk scenarios are also similar [in sex toys] are prudent for public health protection."

The research team's findings were published in the journal Microplastics and Nanoplastics.