International Sex Toy Day: Pleasure, History, Where they’re illegal!

November 4th marks International Sex Toy Day, a celebration dedicated to embracing sexual wellness and the diverse array of devices that enhance intimate experiences. This day encourages open conversations about sexuality, promotes safe practices, and acknowledges the rich history and cultural significance of sex toys.

A Glimpse into the History of Sex Toys

The use of objects for sexual pleasure dates back thousands of years. Archaeological findings have uncovered phallic-shaped artifacts made from stone, bone, and other materials, some dating as far back as 50,000 BCE. These early tools suggest that humans have long sought ways to explore and enhance their sexual experiences.

In ancient Greece, during the Hellenistic period (323 BCE – 30 BCE), the ‘olisbos’—a dildo made from materials like leather, wood, or painted clay—was used to enhance pleasure and explore different sexual experiences. The term ‘sex toy’ itself emerged in the 1930s, providing a more inclusive and neutral name to discuss these items, moving away from more explicit or derogatory terminology used in previous eras.

Modern-Day Legal Landscape of Sex Toys

While many countries have embraced the use and sale of sex toys, others maintain strict regulations or outright bans. For instance, in Thailand, sex toys are considered ‘obscene objects,’ and their sale, display, promotion, import, or export can be restricted under the country’s laws. Similarly, in the United Arab Emirates, possessing sex toys can result in severe penalties under the UAE’s legal framework, including confiscation and legal prosecution.

In India, while sex toys are not explicitly banned, they can be considered ‘obscene objects,’ and their sale, display, promotion, import, or export can be restricted under India’s Penal Code. Conversely, countries like the Netherlands have more liberal attitudes, with sex toys being widely available and openly discussed. (Hurrah to the Netherlands!)

Wait, it’s ILLEGAL to have sex toys in some places?

The legal status of sex toys varies worldwide. Here is a list of countries where sex toys face restrictions or outright bans:

• Saudi Arabia: Strictly prohibits the production, distribution, and consumption of pornography, including sex toys. Possession can lead to severe penalties.
• Thailand: Classifies sex toys as ‘obscene objects,’ making their sale, purchase, or possession illegal. Penalties can include imprisonment, fines, or both.
• India: While not explicitly banned, sex toys can be deemed ‘obscene,’ restricting their sale, display, promotion, import, or export under the Penal Code.
• United Arab Emirates: Possession of sex toys can result in severe penalties, including confiscation and legal prosecution.
• Malaysia: Classifies sex toys as ‘obscene’ under the penal code, making their sale, distribution, or possession illegal. Penalties can include imprisonment, fines, or both.
• Vietnam: The General Department of Vietnam Customs has a policy against importing sex toys, leading to confiscation if found.
• Maldives: Prohibits the production, sale, import, or dissemination of ‘pornographic materials,’ including sex toys. Penalties can include confiscation and imprisonment of up to six months.
• United States (Alabama and Mississippi): The 1998 Anti-Obscenity Enforcement Act defines adult sex toys as devices ‘designed or marketed for the stimulation of human genital organs.’ Selling, producing, distributing, or possessing such materials with intent to distribute is illegal, with penalties including fines up to $10,000 and imprisonment up to one year.

It’s essential to research and understand the local laws regarding sex toys when traveling or residing in different countries to avoid legal complications.

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Materials and Safety Considerations

The materials used in sex toys significantly impact their safety and user experience. Common materials include silicone, rubber, jelly, glass, metal, and hard plastics.

• Silicone: A popular choice due to its non-porous nature, hypoallergenic properties, and ease of cleaning. High-quality silicone is body-safe and durable.
• Rubber and Jelly: Often more affordable but can be porous, making them harder to clean and potentially harboring bacteria. Some may contain phthalates, chemicals used to soften plastics, which have raised health concerns.
• Glass and Metal: Non-porous, easy to clean, and can be used for temperature play. However, they require careful handling to avoid injury.
• Hard Plastics: Generally non-porous and easy to clean, but it’s essential to ensure they are free from harmful chemicals.

It’s crucial to purchase sex toys from reputable manufacturers who use body-safe materials. The European sex toy market, for instance, has witnessed strategic sales growth, with countries like the UK, Germany, France, Italy, and Spain driving demand. However, a lack of regulation has allowed some manufacturers to exploit inexpensive but potentially toxic materials, highlighting the need for improved consumer protection.

Where do we recommend?

Compatibility of Lubricants with Sex Toys

Using the right lubricant enhances comfort and pleasure but must be compatible with the sex toy material:

• Water-Based Lubricants: Safe to use with all sex toy materials. They are easy to clean but may require reapplication during use.
• Silicone-Based Lubricants: Long-lasting and ideal for water play. However, they should not be used with silicone toys, as they can degrade the material over time.
• Oil-Based Lubricants: Suitable for metal or glass toys but can degrade latex condoms and may be challenging to clean from porous materials.

Always check the manufacturer’s recommendations regarding lubricant compatibility to ensure the longevity of your sex toys and maintain safety.

Celebrating International Sex Toy Day

International Sex Toy Day is an opportunity to explore and celebrate sexual wellness. Here are some ways to honor the day:

• Self-Exploration: Dedicate time to understand your body and discover what brings you pleasure.
• Education: Learn about different types of sex toys, their uses, and safety practices.
• Open Dialogue: Engage in conversations with partners or friends about sexual health and preferences, fostering a culture of openness and acceptance.
• Support Ethical Brands: Purchase from companies that prioritize body-safe materials and ethical manufacturing practices.

By embracing International Sex Toy Day, we contribute to a more informed, open, and healthy discourse surrounding sexuality and pleasure.

Join the Conversation

What’s your favorite sex toy, or how are you celebrating? Share your thoughts in the comments and join us in celebrating sexual wellness on this special day!

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#InternationalSexToyDay #SexToyDay #SexualWellness #SexualHealth #PleasurePositive #SexEducation #BodySafe #SexToySafety #CelebratePleasure #SexualEmpowerment