Female prisoners in the Netherlands are being offered sex toys as part of a new initiative aimed at reducing health risks linked to the use of unsafe homemade alternatives.
The scheme, being implemented across Dutch prisons, will make sex toys available to about 70% of female inmates.
The move follows warnings from experts about an increase in fungal infections among prisoners who reportedly resort to items such as toothbrushes to meet their sexual needs.
According to Dutch broadcaster NOS, female inmates can choose between two products: an air-pressure Satisfyer and a transparent, non-branded dildo. Both products are available for purchase at cost price.
The Dutch Custodial Institutions Agency said access to safe sexual aids could promote relaxation, improve sleep and reduce frustration, while also limiting health risks associated with unsafe alternatives.
The policy follows research indicating that female inmates had limited access to ways of safely expressing their sexual needs. In some prisons, even electric toothbrushes were reportedly banned because of concerns that they could be used for sexual stimulation.
Researchers said the lack of safe alternatives had led some inmates to improvise, potentially exposing themselves to health risks, including fungal infections.
The initiative has reportedly received support from some prison staff, with one employee arguing that providing sexual aids could make a meaningful difference to inmates’ wellbeing.
A female prisoner also welcomed the initiative, saying women, like men, have sexual needs and that providing safe options would be beneficial.
The trial is expected to run for a year, after which Dutch authorities will assess whether sex toys should continue to be available for female inmates to purchase.
There is currently no indication that a similar policy will be introduced for male prisoners.
