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Roundup: Phthalates in Sex Toys

Last Updated (Sunday, 22 June 2008 21:57) Friday, 06 June 2008 15:42

Sex Toy Dangers - a look at some research

It's been a while since phthalates (FAY-lates) were in the news headlines, but to keep you aware of the possible dangers, here's a quick roundup of information with links to more in-depth stories and some retailers that sell safe sex toys.

What are phthalates? They're a family of chemicals, derived from phthalic acid, and used to soften hard plastics to make them more flexible. They're what give sex toys their enticing bendy, flexible, flesh-like quality.

Research has warned that they should be considered dangerous to infants, but there's not enough evidence yet to say for certain if the level of phthalates in sex toys is dangerous for the average duration of use. The good news about all of the publicity is that many sex toy makers and sellers are working hard to help inform you, the consumer, and provide safer alternatives.

You can find lots more information on phthalates from one of these sex toy retailers or news outlets: