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Sex Toys 101: Questions and Answers

 Typical Questions

What is the percentage of women who use sex toys?

There are vibrators, personal massagers and dildos: What’s the difference?

What kind of vibrator is better: Hard or soft?

What is a PPA?

Does size matter?

Who makes the highest-quality vibrators?

What is a Venus Butterfly?

How does a cockring work?

What can I do about a loud vibrator?

Can I get “numb” from using a vibrator?

 

Anal Toys

Can you have an orgasm from anal stimulation?

What’s the difference between a probe, plug or beads?

Is anal play with toys safe?

How are anal lubricants different from regular lubricants?

 

Partner Issues

I want to try a sex toy, but how do I bring it up with my partner?

Is it safe to “share” toys with a partner or friends?

How can a vibrator be used during penetration sex?

 

Men’s Issues

What kind of vibrator should I buy for my girlfriend?

What if I buy her a toy and she gets “addicted” to it instead of me?

What kind of toys can a man use?
I’m a straight guy that wants to experiment with anal play but, I’m embarrassed.

 

Lubricants and Condoms

Why use a lubricant?

What are the different kinds of lubricants?

I had an allergic reaction to a latex condom. Should I try a polyurethane one?

 

 

What’s the percentage of women who use sex toys?

Based on a world-wide Durex study, between 60% and 80% percent of all women use sex toys.

 

 

There are vibrators, personal massagers, dildos: What’s the difference?

A dildo or a “dong” is a phallus-shaped item designed to provide sexual pleasure through vaginal or anal penetration, not clitoral stimulation.  A dildo can look perfectly realistic with true to life texture or it may be perfectly smooth.  Put a vibrating motor in a dildo and it becomes, you guessed it, a vibrator. These items offer more targeted stimulation and are often used to arouse the clitoris. A “personal massager” is a polite euphemism for a vibrator.

 

 

What kind of vibrator is better:  Hard or Soft?

This is a very personal preference. Soft vibrators tend to warm with body heat and offer a more realistic feel. However, some people prefer the smooth, heavy feel of a hard vibe. Plastic, metal and acrylic vibes also tend to transmit stronger vibrations. Click here to see our most popular hard or soft vibrators.

 

 

What is a PPA?

A PPA is a “prosthetic penis attachment” that essentially is a hollow dildo that simulates erection. It can be worn over the hips by way of thigh-straps or it can be rolled on like a condom. PPA’s are often used by men with erectile dysfunction to assist penetration but they are also used to increase length and girth. Click here to see a PPA.

 

 

Does size matter?

If you are looking for a product primarily for clitoral stimulation size won’t matter at all because it will be used externally. If you want to use it as an insertable toy for the first time, it might be better to start out small-to-average and work your way up to your perfect size. (5 to 6 inches would be a good starting point.) Click here for an example.

Again, preferences for length and girth are very personal. While many women tend to choose a 7 to 8 inch product, others require a far larger size for sexual enjoyment.

  

 

Who makes the highest-quality vibrators?

Though sex toy manufacturers have made great improvements in toy quality in the last few years, many are still produced in China, Taiwan and even America from cheap components that tend to break after 6 months to one year. Japanese vibrators are by far the highest quality, featuring higher RPMs and quiet operation.

With proper care, these superior massagers can last decades. Click here to see our most popular Japanese Vibrator.

 

 

What is a Venus Butterfly?

The Venus Butterfly was one of the first products specifically designed for clitoral stimulation. Its unique feature is leg straps that allow it to be worn like a pair of panties, allowing the wearer to achieve extra stimulation during solo masturbation sessions or even during intercourse. Click here to see a Venus Butterfly.

 

 

How does a cockring work?

A ring worn at the base of the penis or behind the scrotum can enhance erection size and girth, control ejaculation and create more powerful orgasms. It accomplishes this by restricting blood flow and trapping the blood in the shaft of the penis. Furthermore, cockrings can be an aid to safer sex because they secure the condom at the base of the penis, reducing slippage. Click here to see our most popular cockring.

 

 

What can I do about a loud vibrator?

The sound of a loud vibrator is often generated by the vibration of the batteries against the internal plastic tubing. You can reduce this noise by lining the casing with a rolled piece of paper. Click here to see an example of our most popular quiet vibrator.

 

 

Can I get “numb” from using a vibrator?

Applying strong, direct pressure on any part of the body can cause the surrounding tissue to feel “numb” but this is only a temporary condition. To remedy this, try limiting direct contact by placing a towel, sheet or blanket between you and the vibrator. Or, you can try varying the pressure. Many women find that “pausing” the vibration in varying 2-second increments can lead to more explosive orgasms.

 

 

Can you have an orgasm from anal stimulation?

The anus, richly endowed with nerve endings and interconnected with the main pelvic muscles, is the closest erogenous neighbor of the genitals and contracts rhythmically during orgasm. Some women report that they can achieve orgasms from anal stimulation alone. In men, anal penetration stimulates the prostate as well as the penile bulb which can result in powerful orgasms. Click here for more information about anal sex techniques.

 

 

What’s the difference between a probe, plug or beads?

Butt Plugs are designed to be worn to create a sensation of fullness in the rectum which can heighten sexual intensity-They are generally inserted and left in place during other erotic activities. Click here to see our most popular anal plug. Anal probes or Anal Vibrators are generally used to manually stimulate the anus alone or during sex. They can also vibrate for added pleasure. Click here to see our most popular anal vibrator.

 

Butt/Anal Beads are inserted one by one into the rectum and then slowly pulled out during orgasm for stronger climaxes. Click here to see our most popular anal beads.

 

 

Is anal play with toys safe?

By following a few simple rules, anal play can be fun and safe.

 

1. The Golden Rule: lubricant and lots of it! The rectum is not a self-lubricating organ like the vagina and is more prone to bruising and tearing.

2. Relax and take it slow. Breathe into each stroke.

3. When engaging in anal play, ALWAYS use a toy with a flared base or a product designed specifically for this type of sex. Regular probes and vibrators can be lost inside the rectum. 

4. Don’t share anal toys. If you do, cover them with a condom. Disinfect toys with an anti-bacterial toy cleaner after each and every use.

5. Never use a toy from anus to vagina unless you change condoms in between.

6. If it hurts, STOP.

 

 

How are anal lubricants different from regular lubricants?

Anal lubricants tend to be thicker and richer than traditional lubricants and act as a “cushion” to the sensitive tissues of the rectum. Click here to see the best in anal lubricants.

 

 

I want to try a sex toy, but how do I bring it up with my partner?

Naturally, communication is the key. Rather than surprising your partner with a toy, try approaching the subject of sex toys in a sensitive but light-hearted way. Bring up an article about a fun toy you read about in a magazine or on a website. Instructional books and videos are also great learning tools for nervous beginners and can help couples find out what they like. Click here to find out more information about sex toys.

 

 

Is it safe to “share” toys with a partner or friends?

With regards to safe sex, sex toy usage should be treated with the same care as regular penetration sex. Any object that comes in contact with the genitals can transfer bacteria or viruses so it should be completely disinfected before use, or covered with a condom. It’s always better to use your own toys during sex with a partner, but if you must share, it is preferable to use silicone, Pyrex glass, or hard plastic toys. Their non-porous surfaces are easier to clean and will not trap bacteria. Click here to see the best selection of silicone toys.

 

 

How can a vibrator be used during penetration sex?

Many couples find that the addition of a vibrator is fun and useful during all kinds of sexual activity. Many women overcome orgasm difficulties by applying a vibrator to the clitoris during sexual intercourse. Men can also benefit their partners (and achieve stronger erections) by wearing a vibrating cockring.  Click here to see our most popular vibrating cockring.

 

 

What kind of vibrator should I buy for my girlfriend?

Keep in mind that every woman is different, though 80% of the female population requires at least some kind of clitoral stimulation. Some women prefer external vibration only. Some prefer internal stimulation and some prefer both. If you don’t know, ASK. If she is unsure about her sexual likes and dislikes, I would usually advise trying a Vibrating Bullet. These inexpensive and versatile toys offer excellent vibration and can be applied to the clitoris, vagina or anus. Because they are generally small (and don’t resemble a penis) they are less likely to intimidate a nervous beginner. Click here to see our most popular Vibrating Bullet.

 

 

What if I buy her a toy and she gets “addicted” to it instead of me?

She probably masturbates but does she prefer her finger to you? Adult toys are a complement to sex, not a replacement for human contact. Vibrators can help a woman achieve orgasm during intercourse when it might have been difficult or impossible before. They are great for foreplay and can also help her get in the mood for sex. Keep in mind that women need to stimulate 35,000 more nerve receptors to reach orgasm than men. To put it in simple terms, Guys are naturally closer to the finish line.Vibrators just help women get there faster. Click here to see great toys that couples can use together.

 

 

What kind of toys can a man use?

Until recently there wasn’t much variety in the sex toy industry available to men. Masturbators, sleeves and love dolls were made out of uncomfortable, hard plastics and were far from “realistic” feeling. Now adult novelty companies have made tremendous leaps in production quality with new polymers that mimic the soft feel of real skin like Jelly, silicone and Cyberskin. Now men can purchase life-like replicas that truly mimic the feel of intercourse, oral and anal sex. Men can use cock rings which help give them stronger and more long-lasting erections. Vibrating cock rings can turn a man into a “human vibrator”. For anal stimulation, there are thousands of products from beads to plugs that will allow men to stimulate their prostate (g-spot) gland. Click here to see the best selection of toys for men.

 

 

I’m a straight guy that wants to experiment with anal play but I’m embarrassed.

The good news is men have a G-spot just like women, and it’s called the prostate gland. When stimulated (by way of the anus), this pressure sensitive organ can help produce some of the most mind blowing orgasms you’ve ever had.
Here’s the dilemma: It can only be reached through the anus, and many heterosexual men consider this area
off-limits because it’s stereotyped a gay sex practice. Keep in mind; EVERYONE has the ability to enjoy anal stimulation: male, female, gay or straight. It’s true that gay men are often more familiar with prostate stimulation, but they have fewer social taboos regarding anal sex. Gay men derive sexual pleasure from anal sex yet they possess the same equipment as straight men. Why should outdated cultural conditioning dictate how you can enjoy your own body? As long as what you do is safe and consensual, you have nothing to worry about. To quote Hustler Magazine, “Relax. It’s just sex!” Click here to see our most popular prostate stimulators.

 

 

Why use a lubricant?

Because sex toys and even condoms absorb moisture it’s always wise to use a good lubricant. It will last longer than natural body fluids and reduce friction. Best of all, it will increase pleasure by adding a sensual glide to any sexual activity. The two most popular lubes are the water-based and silicone-based varieties.

 

What are the different kinds of lubricants?

Water-based lubricants like Astroglide usually contain glycerin. This substance has a light consistency and a sweet aftertaste. When its water content evaporates it can become a little sticky but quick sprits of water will “reactivate” it. There are also excellent new organic lubricants like Wet Naturals that forgo all artificial ingredients but are still long-lasting and latex-safe.

 

Silicone-based lubricants like Eros Bodyglide seem to last forever because they sit on top of the skin instead of absorbing into it. A few drops of this lube and you’ll be slipping and sliding all night. It even stays “wet” under water! Its long-lasting qualities also make it one of the best massage products around. So why doesn’t everyone use it? Because some customers prefer a more natural lube and don’t like Eros’s thicker consistency. Also, silicone-based lubes are not compatible with many silicone toys. (Eros has addressed this by introducing its own water-based formulas, Eros Woman.)

Anal lubricants can be silicone or water-based but tend to have a thicker consistency and stay where you put them.

 

Never use “home” products for lubrication! (This includes Crisco, hair conditioner, mineral oil, Vaseline, cold cream and moisturizers.) These products will upset the natural Ph of a woman’s vagina. And because these products are oil-based they will also weaken latex condoms

Click here to see our entire selection of personal lubricants.

 

I had an allergic reaction to a latex condom. Should I try a polyurethane one?

Are you sure you had an allergic reaction? It is estimated that only 6% of Americans are allergic to latex. Many of our customers who complain of latex irritation find that they are actually reacting to Nonoxynol-9. This detergent like substance is a frequent component of many lubricated condoms because of its ability to kill sperm and HIV. However, new research has shown that it causes so much tissue irritation that it can actually INCREASE disease transmission. As a safety precaution, we do not recommend condoms or lubricants that contain this substance.

If you experience discomfort and irritation with condoms, check your brand thoroughly for Nonoxynol-9. You could also try using a non lubricated latex condom because you might be manifesting an allergy to glycerin containing products.

If you still have irritation, it would be wise to switch to a polyurethane condom. (In my opinion, this should be a last resort. Polyurethane is not as elastic as latex so it has a higher tear-rate. It also feels like Saran wrap.)  

Click here for an example of a non-latex condom.

 

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