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Q&A: Did My Clit Suction Toy Give Me A Urinary Tract Infection?
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Q&A: Did My Clit Suction Toy Give Me A Urinary Tract Infection?

Q&A: Did My Clit Suction Toy Give Me A Urinary Tract Infection?
Hello,

I wonder if you can help. I ordered a clit suction toy recently and have used it around half a dozen times, but I'm finding that in the couple of days after using it I am weeing every half an hour day and night, and feel like I have a urinary tract infection. After a couple of days, things go back to normal.

I've been checked out by my GP and I don't have a UTI so I'm wondering if this is something you've seen before in connection with suction vibes? The toy is great while using it, but I can't deal with the after-effects... Grateful for any advice!

Hi there,

Thanks for getting in touch :)

We are sorry to hear your bladder seems to be working overtime after using your clit suction toy! It's not an issue we've experienced or heard other customers mention, but we have some suggestions that may help.

Did A Clit Suction Toy Cause Honeymoon Cystitis?

Our first thought is of honeymoon cystitis. It’s a super common (and unfair) urinary tract infection that some people - especially women - get after sex. The name comes from the idea that newlyweds, well… tend to be extraenthusiastic on their honeymoon, which can sometimes lead to genital irritation and infection.

Basically, during sex, bacteria (usually from the genital or anal area) can get pushed into the urethra, where they can cause an infection. The result? A burning feeling when you pee, the need to go all the time, and general discomfort down there. Not fun!

The good news? It’s usually easy to treat with antibiotics, and there are simple ways to help prevent it. Make sure to pee after sex, stay hydrated, and practice good hygiene.

Can Lube Cause Bladder Irritation?

You mentioned that you've had a check-up and no UTI was present. This is good - great! - but it doesn't explain what's going on.

Are you using lube? You may be sensitive to an ingredient in your lube. Common culprits are silicone, parabens or glycerine. We'd recommend trying a few different lubes. A gentler formula may work better and we'd recommend trying something water-based without parabens and glycerine.

Yes Liberation Lab Ltd Water-Based Lube Yes Organic Lubricant 150

If you're not using lube, we recommend getting yourself a bottle. Going lube-free can irritate the area, even if you're super-turned-on and wet. Clit sucking sex toys don't rub the delicate skin around the clitoris in the same way as more traditional vibes, but the area still needs TLC. A drop or two of lube can make all the difference :)

How To Best Clean Sex Toys?

Another important point is sex toy cleaning. How do you clean and store your suction vibrator? Soap residue or dust particles may be left on the toy and enter your urethra during play.

Using a sex toy cleaner is easy and takes care of any bacteria on your clit sucker. Try cleaning your toy before and after use with sex toy cleaner or antibacterial hand wash and warm water. Always leave sex toys to air dry and store them somewhere dust-free.

We hope this helps - please let us know how you get on!

Best Wishes,
Team Sh! xx

 

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