Can Using a Vibrator Too Much Be Harmful?
Looking to enhance your sex life and revolutionise your self-care routine? From reduced stress and improved mood to better sleep, there are a whole host of benefits that come with masturbation. While many people enjoy vibrators, they are especially popular amongst women who have trouble achieving orgasm through masturbation or penetration from a partner. Research shows that for nearly 75% of women, penetrative sex alone doesn't lead to an orgasm.
Shop easy to use SELF staffer-, shopper-, and expert-approved options below. When you think of a vibrator, we’re betting a large, microphone-shaped option comes to mind. Not to knock classic wand vibes, but the best clitoral vibrators come in all kinds of shapes, sizes, and colors (basically, almost any style you can dream up). A more compact version of the We-Vibe's Verge ring, it's an easier fit that sits snugly between a penis and a vagina during intercourse.
Insertable up to 17cm, the Silencer features a rounded tip and a silky-smooth shaft that’s ribbed for extra pleasure. It’s battery operated and completely waterproof, so go ahead and get your rub-a-dub-dub on in the tub. Designed to be felt but not heard, the Silencer is a whisper-quiet classic vibrator that comes from the “sexual happiness people” over at Lovehoney. If just three vibration options sounds too limiting, might we suggest the Minna Ola?
Porous materials, like PVC and elastomer, hold onto bacteria and can never be fully cleaned. Instead, look for vibes made from nonporous materials like ABS plastic and medical-grade silicone—these won’t irritate or damage genital and anal tissues, Dr. Suwinyattichaiporn says. If your sex toy looks rusty, discoloured or just generally worse for wear, it's probably time to replace it. Similarly, if the battery looks damaged or there are frayed electrical wires, then you should look for a new vibrator. It has an impressive seven vibration modes and eight levels of intensity, putting you in total control of your experience. It also still comes in an attractive, compact (3.5”) case and makes minimal noise, so it's a top choice if discretion is the name of the game.
So here are some other products that are great in their own right and worth checking out. In any sexual experience — with a partner or solo — you have the authority over what makes you feel good. “You know your body. Don't continue use if it hurts. Toys are designed with specific anatomy in mind, so make sure to use the right products for the designated body part,” Chang says.
“Launching this new technology is our way of breaking the mold of what people should expect from pleasure products, especially vibrators,” said Michelle Shnaidman, CEO of Bellesa. Vibrators create much more intense stimulation than fingers, tongues, or penises can. If you’ve never had an orgasm before, you may find it easier to have your first one with a vibrator.
The original rabbit hopped onto the scene in the mid-1990s, popularised by its appearance in the hit TV show Sex and the City, they've been top-sellers ever since. At $109, it's oddly more expensive than the Vesper 2, but no one ever said luxury was cheap. It’s USB-C rechargeable (with a proprietary plug on one end), whisper-quiet , even on turbo mode vibrator, and comes in silver, rose gold, black, and 24-karat gold plating, with a matching adjustable 26-inch chain. At the time, the world had never seen anything like this vibrator necklace, and because of its originality, it garnered fans worldwide. Patented by Martin Engineering, Vibrolator® vibrators are the original ball vibrators and still provide a reliable and efficient solution to flow problems. “No matter what, for a number of toys, the best and easiest use involves at least a couple of drops of lubricant for comfort,” says Fulbright.
We know that's a lot to consider, but this is an important decision. The Je Joue MiMi Soft is made with an extra layer of silicone for extra plush pressure that is soft and smooth. It has five vibration levels and patterns for a nice variety of sensations. If you want to start off super basic, this mini Power Bullet is right up your alley. It's inexpensive (only $11!), small, and has one easy button to control the vibrations. It may be no frills, but that doesn't mean it's no fun — you'll still get plenty of pleasure.