Emergency room visits: The surprising dangers of household items and sex toys

In news that’s equal parts eyebrow-raising and educational, a recent Freedom of Information (FOI) request has revealed that at least 36 people in the UK ended up in National Health Service (NHS) emergency rooms because of sex toys that had to be medically removed.

And it doesn’t stop there. Alongside purpose-made toys, hospitals have also seen their fair share of strange objects that somehow ended up in places they definitely weren’t designed to go. 

We’re talking everything from toilet brushes and deodorant cans to toothbrushes, marbles, and even carrots.

While some might laugh, experts say this isn’t just an awkward moment, but it can also be seriously risky.

Tom and Isabelle, the sex educators behind Talking Kinky, say there’s no need to fear exploring your sexuality, but a little knowledge can go a long way.

“Pleasure should never come at the cost of pain or panic,” says Isabelle.

“With a little preparation and the right tools, intimacy can be both fulfilling and entirely safe.”

Tom adds: “Be safe. Always use proper tools made for the activity.”

It’s good to be curious, but use the right gear and know your limits.

Things go wrong

Although the 36 reported cases involved actual sex toys, NHS staff have also had to remove a wide variety of household items that were never meant for internal use, many of which don’t have the safety features needed to prevent accidents.

Common culprits have included:

• Deodorant bottles
• Pens
• Remote controls
• Snooker balls
• Large vegetables
• And more than a few marbles

“While humour often surrounds these mishaps, the health risks are serious. Misuse can lead to tears, infections, or in rare cases, surgery,” warns Isabelle.

How to play smart

Tom and Isabelle shared their top safety tips for anyone looking to explore their body or spice up their sex life:

• Use flared base toys: Especially for anal. If it doesn’t have a base, it might get stuck.
• Don’t use household items: Just because it fits doesn’t mean it’s safe. Glass, sharp edges, food items, it’s not worth it unless it’s made for play.
• Start small: Stretching should be gradual. Rushing increases the risk of injury.
• Sterilise everything: Infections are not a good time. Use toy-safe cleaners or boil if the material allows.
• Communicate: With yourself or your partner. Use a mirror, ask how it feels, and check in often.

When should you ask for help?

Tom puts it simply: “Doctors have seen it all. They’re more likely to be concerned about delays than your inserted rubber duck.”

So if something goes wrong, don’t panic, but don’t wait too long either.

Get medical attention if you’re experiencing:

• Sharp pain
• Bleeding
• Loss of sensation
• A toy or object that won’t come out after 10–15 minutes of calm effort

Sexual exploration is natural and should be fun! But it’s worth taking a few extra precautions to avoid an awkward and potentially painful trip to an emergency room. 

With the right toys, communication, and a little prep, your playtime can stay exciting and safe.

IOL Lifestyle

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