Is it safe to use a vibrator while pregnant?

Your desire can rise and fall during pregnancy, and there may be times when you want that little extra stimulation a sex toy can provide. Can you use a vibrator while pregnant? The answer is yes. Vibrators and other sex toys are usually safe to use during pregnancy.

It's important to make sure your toys are clean before you use them. Sex toys can carry the bacteria and viruses that cause sexually transmitted infections (STIs), including:

• Chlamydia
• Genital herpes
• Hepatitis B (HPB)
• Hepatitis C
• Syphilis
• Trichomoniasis
• Gonorrhea

These infections can be risky to you and your baby.

The best advice is to not share your vibrator, and to wash it before and after each use, as well as when you switch it to a different body part (like going from your anus to your vagina).

You can follow the instructions on the package for cleaning your vibrator. Usually, it's okay to wash reusable sex toys with warm water and soap.        

It's best to use a nonporous sex toy, since porous toys can harbor bacteria and increase your risk of infection. And if you see any scratches or cuts on your vibrator, it may be time to throw it out, since bacteria can grow there, too.

If your healthcare provider recommends you avoid penetrative vaginal sex while you're pregnant, using a vibrator (with no penetration involved) can be a good alternative. But you may want to ask your provider before using one if:

• You're at risk for preterm labor
• You have pain or cramps
• You're bleeding or leaking amniotic fluid
• You have placenta previa
• Your water has already broken

Read more about sex during pregnancy and what's safe or not.