 | Information about Phthalates |  |
The history and health concerns of phthalate plastic softeners
Phthalates were introduced in the 1920s as an additive to soften PVC plastic items, and have been in widespread use ever since, despite research which shows a history of problems and health concerns over phthalates used as pvc softeners in adult sex toys.  Recent medical studies however, have linked the presence of phthalates in the urine to fertility problems, birth defects and kidney/liver disease. This has lead to restrictions and bans for its inclusion in childrens toys in the USA and EU.
Greenpeace UK led a call for the ban of phthalates in adult sex toys in 2006, and although there are currently no bans or restrictions announced as yet, phthalates are steadily being replaced. Progress in this direction is being helped by consumer awareness and pressure.
|
| The sex toys most likely to contain Phthalates are the soft pvc & jelly types, which are popular because of their feel and their low cost. A result of their texture is that they are very well suited to penetrative sex toys such as dildos, vibrators and butt plugs.
There is currently no mandatory requirement for labelling the presence of phthalates on adult sex toys, but the most likely occurrence of phthalates will be with the PVC type 3 as shown by the recycling mark opposite. If a sex toy contains phthalates and they are often used in differing amounts, a good way of detecting the amount contained is by the smell - the "new shower curtain" smell describes it well. The stronger the smell, the higher the phthalate content.
There are safe alternative plasticisers to replace phthalates and they are increasingly being used, but until all PVC and jelly sex toys are either made without phthalates or clearly labelled if manufactured with them, we would strongly advise users to cover soft plastic sex toys with condoms for use. This is also good practise because these toys have porous surfaces which trap germs and cannot be easily sterilised. |
|
|
|
