Do Sex Toys Cause Diabetes? Health Risks & Safe Alternatives

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On April 7, 2026

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There’s been some buzz recently that your favorite buzzy toys may cause diabetes. This is, of course, surprising and concerning! Our experienced product test team is going to talk us through why people are suggesting this and whether you should be concerned.

Key Takeaways

A recent study demonstrated that certain kinds of sex toys are likely to emit microplastics and phthalates during use, and both of those have been linked to a higher risk of developing diabetes. It’s all about staying in the know and choosing the right material. And who knows? Future studies might shed more light on this topic. For now, let’s stay curious and cautious. However, if you are concerned and want a quick fix, I recommend putting a condom over the sex toy.

Possible Link Between Sex Toys and Type 2 Diabetes

A recent study by researchers at Duke University and Appalachian State University discovered that certain sex toys emit microplastics and phthalates. This is obviously a concern, especially when the toys are used internally and are in contact with mucus membranes.

It is known that microplastics cause inflammation and cellular damage, and that they are linked to changes in metabolism. Phthalates are endocrine disruptors; they block (or mimic) natural hormones and are also linked to changes in metabolism. They are everywhere, including cosmetics and even bottled water.

Further research suggests that there may be a link between Type 2 diabetes and exposure to microplastics and phthalates. The American College of Cardiologists reports that “Higher exposure to these microplastics, which can be inadvertently consumed or inhaled, is associated with a heightened prevalence of chronic noncommunicable diseases… microplastics concentration was positively correlated with high blood pressure, diabetes and stroke.” And a review published in the journal Metabolites concludes “the majority of the studies presented show an association between the exposure to phthalates, mostly DEHP and its metabolites, and the occurrence of T2DM [type 2 diabetes mellitus], from children to elderly people.”

Risk Assessment and Mitigation

It is important to know that these studies have discovered a correlation between the development of type 2 diabetes and exposure to microplastics and phthalates, but correlation is not causation. Further research is obviously needed to firm up the science, but this may be enough for you to evaluate your choice of sex toys.

The sex toys that the researchers tested were made of hard and soft plastic, rubber, and a silicone blend. These are materials that are not known for being body-friendly. It is not especially surprising that plastic toys emit microplastics and phthalates; microplastics are produced when plastic items break down, and as the study pointed out, sex toys are subject to friction and abrasion. Phthalates are industrial chemicals that are used to make plastics soft and flexible, and that is often considered a desirable characteristic for a sex toy.

While there are plenty of plastic sex toys on the market, there are also many others, including many of our favorites, that are produced with body-safe materials. Metals such as stainless steel, medical-grade silicone, and borosilicate glass are far less likely to be produced with phthalates or break down into microplastics. They are also much easier to clean and sterilize, so overall they are much healthier for our bodies.

We have consistently advocated that people purchase and use body-friendly sex toys (because sex toys are about loving your body, and love includes care and maintenance). This is one more reason to be conscientious about choosing sex toys made with premium body-safe materials and supporting manufacturers who prioritize this as well.

However, if you already own plastic sex toys and you are not ready to replace your entire toy box (we get it, high-quality sex toys can be costly), you can reduce your exposure and therefore your risk by putting a condom over your sex toy before inserting it. Bonus that this also reduces the risk of contamination from a toy that cannot be properly sterilized, which is almost all plastic toys.

Final Thoughts

Microplastics, phthalates, and a possibly increased risk of diabetes are scary, and sex toys shouldn’t be scary. They are all about wellness and self-care, and there’s no place for any of those things. There are many good reasons to purchase high-quality, body-safe sex toys from manufacturers and retailers who also care about health and safety as well as pleasure.

Happy vibing!

Rachel

Rachel is one of our most experienced product testers. Originally from Texas, she loves sushi, white wine, and spending time with her partner Jessica. She has been featured in Cosmopolitan, Yahoo.com, Women’s Health, Healthline, Glamour, and MindBodyGreen.