Can Adult Toys Cause UTIs? What You Need to Know
Can adult toys cause UTIs? Sexual wellness is empowering, but it should also be safe. At Lola Montez, we believe in pleasure with peace of mind, which means answering questions many people are too shy to ask.
One we hear often:
“Can adult toys cause UTIs?”
The honest answer?
Yes, they can, but they don’t have to.
Let’s break it down so you can enjoy your toys confidently and safely.
🚨 What Is a UTI?
A UTI (urinary tract infection) is an infection in any part of your urinary system, most often the bladder or urethra. It can cause:
- A strong, constant urge to pee
- A burning sensation during urination
- Cloudy, bloody, or foul-smelling urine
- Lower abdominal pain
UTIs are very common in women, and anything that introduces bacteria near the urethra can increase the risk.
💡 So, Can Adult Toys Cause UTIs?
Yes, if they’re not cleaned properly or used without good hygiene practices, adult toys can transfer bacteria into the urethra, which can lead to a UTI.
Here’s how it happens:
🧼 1. Dirty Toys = Bacterial Highway
If a toy isn’t properly cleaned before or after use, bacteria (even from your hands or anus) can end up near the urethra and cause infection.
🔁 2. Switching Between Areas Without Cleaning
Using a toy vaginally and then anally, or vice versa, without cleaning or using a new condom increases the risk of infection, including UTIs and bacterial vaginosis.
👐 3. Dirty Hands or Partners
Even clean toys can become contaminated if they’re handled with unwashed hands or shared without precautions.
🤖 4. Rough Use or Prolonged Friction
This can irritate the urethra or vaginal walls, making it easier for bacteria to enter.
🛡️ How to Use Toys Safely (and Prevent UTIs)
You don’t need to give up pleasure, just get smart about hygiene. Here’s how:
✅ 1. Clean Before & After Every Use
Use warm water and a toy-safe antibacterial cleaner. If your toy is waterproof and non-porous (like silicone), it can often be boiled or sanitized.
(Check your toy’s instructions!)
✅ 2. Wash Your Hands
Before and after handling toys. Sounds basic, but it matters.
✅ 3. Use Barriers for Anal Play
Slip a condom over your toy if you’re switching between anal and vaginal use, or better yet, use separate toys.
✅ 4. Pee After Play
Urinating after sex or toy use helps flush bacteria from your urethra, simple but effective.
✅ 5. Avoid Sharing (Or Clean Thoroughly)
If you share toys with a partner, use condoms or sterilize them between uses.
✅ 6. Use the Right Lube
Choose water-based or toy-compatible lube. Lube reduces friction and irritation, which lowers the risk of microscopic tears (a gateway for bacteria).
⚠️ Already Have a UTI?
If you suspect a UTI, don’t wait it out.
See your doctor or pharmacist. Most UTIs are easily treated with a short course of antibiotics. Untreated, they can lead to more serious infections.
🧠 Final Thoughts from Lola Montez
Yes, adult toys can contribute to a UTI, but so can sex, poor hygiene, or even holding in your pee too long. The key is knowledge, cleanliness, and care.
Your pleasure shouldn’t come at the expense of your health, and with the right practices, it doesn’t have to.
🧼 Need toy cleaners, water-based lube, or storage bags?
Check out our Hygiene & Care range, everything you need for safe, satisfying play.
📩 Got questions? We answer them judgement-free and confidentially. Drop us a DM anytime.