The world hasn’t changed so much that a person can walk into the corner drug store and stock up on sex toys, but society is becoming more accepting of sex toys and the fact that using them doesn’t make someone a pervert. And even though sex toys use is still a bit more common among women, men do seem to be catching up in this area. And so, as more men begin utilizing toys in their sex play, both solo and partner-based, they may need to think about some possible penis health issues that might arise.

A material issue

One of the primary penis health concerns that needs to be considered is whether the materials used in sex toys are safe. This is not as easy a question to answer as it might seem, for the simple reason that sex toys are not regulated. They are considered novelties and so are not subject to oversight that not only would require that they meet specific regulations but which would also require packaging information that gave consumers valuable information about their contents. As a result, it’s a situation of "buyer beware."

In general, sex toys made of silicone or metal. Those that are made of latex or jelly rubber are more likely to contain potentially toxic chemicals. This can cause penis rashes or irritation, among other penis health issues. But just because something is made of silicone does not automatically make it safe. Those that are made of medical grade silicone are more expensive but are made of a silicone that has been tested for harmful effects. Food grade silicone has been shown to be safe in baking products, and may be perfectly safe in sex toys - but the research has not been done to verify that.

Sleeves

Men who want to purchase a penis sleeve or a similar device designed to wrap around the penis should take a minute to consider clean-up. It’s important to clean sex toys after each use. Can the sleeve be easily cleaned? If it can be turned inside out, that makes for easier cleaning. And if it vibrates, how does the electrical component affect its ability to be cleaned with soap and water?

Also - let the toy air dry completely after washing. Putting a damp object away, especially in a dark place like a drawer, can make it a breeding ground for mold. And that can definitely create an unwanted penis health issue.

Choose the right lube

Most sex toys need lubrication, but some lubricants will cause a toy to decay. This will happen if a silicone-based lube is used on a silicone sex toy, or if oil- or lotion-based lubes are used on latex toys. And if the material degrades, it can cause unwanted chemicals to leech out and onto the skin. If the packaging of a sex toy doesn’t indicate the proper lube to use, do a little research online to find the best options.

Go easy

Finally, sex toys can add excitement to one’s sex life - but a guy should go easy until he’s accustomed to it. It may feel like heaven, but overuse might make one’s penis sore as hell.

Guys should have fun exploring sex toys with themselves or with a partner, and they’ll have more fun if their penis health is already top notch. Daily use of a first class penis health creme (health professionals recommend Man 1 Man Oil, which is clinically proven mild and safe for skin) is one excellent way to keep an eye on that health. Since overuse or rough handling may come about if a guy gets a little too "into" things, he needs a crème with a combination of moisturizing ingredients (such as shea butter and vitamin E) to help soothe the overworked penis. And if that overuse has resulted in some loss of penis sensation, the creme should include neuroprotective L-carnitine, which helps restore diminished penis sensitivity.