Using Vibrators

Using Vibrators
Updated on September 21, 2021 @ 01:00PM

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Maressa Brown is a journalist and astrologer who's a regular lifestyle contributor and resident astrologer for InStyle. She has nearly two decades of professional experience writing, reporting, and editing lifestyle content for a variety of digital and print consumer-facing publications including Parents, Shape, Astrology.com, and more. She is currently based in Los Angeles and completing her first title with Artisan Books to be published in early 2023.

Living through a global pandemic has inspired many to take better care of ourselves, whether it's finally downloading that meditation app or starting a daily lunchtime walk routine. And we think it's no coincidence that vibrator sales have also soared since March 2020. After all, sex, be it partnered or solo is truly an act of self-care — one that can be made even more playful and exciting with the help of a trusty vibrator.

"Vibrators can help vulva-owners understand their own 'pleasure map' and explore their erotic energy," says Alexandra Fine, CEO and co-founder of Dame Products . "And more pleasure means better sleep, less stress, and overall improved well-being."

Shannon Chavez, Psy.D., a psychologist and sex therapist in Los Angeles , adds that incorporating the buzzing sex toy into your routine can serve to enhance your body's response to all types of touch and sensation.

"Using a vibrator gives you the opportunity to prime your body for other sexual experiences by getting nerve endings firing, and it enhances blood flow circulation," she notes. In short, she sees it as a sexual health device, pointing out that just as we see massage as self-care, so too is using a vibe — not just on your genitals but your whole body.

Here's what you need to know to get the most bliss out of your vibrator, depending on which type you have and general must-knows, according to experts.

Although we tend to think of certain body parts as go-tos for sexual pleasure — you know, your nipples, your clitoris, maybe also your neck — the whole body is wired for pleasure, meaning there are all different, unexpected erogenous zones, says Chavez.

"Some people feel the back of their knees as an erogenous area," she says. "Their eyelids, their ears, also the belly — it's such an important, sensitive area where we tend to hold a lot of tension — and the inner thighs, inner arms." Basically, any spot you'd identify as sensitive might be one to use your vibrator on, which in turn, heightens overall stimulation.

There's a misconception that cranking a sex toy up to the highest intensity setting will bring even more pleasure, but that's not necessarily the case — especially on more sensitive areas, says Chavez.

For that reason, she recommends that beginners, or even more experienced vibrator users, trying out a new toy start on the lowest setting and use light pressure. Then, by stimulating yourself lightly, you can slowly awaken erogenous areas and avoid any pain, discomfort, tension, or desensitization that could be brought on by diving into full-throttle mode. "You want to warm up your tissue, so you're comfortable and relaxed," she says.

And because most vibrators offer not only various intensity levels but upwards of seven or eight vibrational patterns — including anything from a steady buzz to pulsing or crescendoing — Chavez recommends starting with light intensity and finding which pattern you like the best before trying a more powerful buzz.

All of the experts we spoke with stressed the importance of using lubricant with any vibrator. "It can heighten sensation, if it's an arousal gel, like Omax O-Shot CBD Arousal Oil , or simply help the device glide and move with more ease," says Chavez. Whatever lube you use, make sure it is a gentle, water-based product, which will help maintain the integrity of your vibe and keep UTIs, bacterial vaginosis, or yeast infections at bay.

While certain vibrators are meant for exclusive external versus internal use (like bullets and wands), you can't really go "wrong" by getting creative — especially when it comes to how you're holding a vibrator or moving your own body. For instance, Chavez suggests holding the toy with your non-dominant hand for a sensation that's different from using your dominant hand. Or experiment with positioning and rotating your hips in different motions.

Bullet vibes are small, generally handle-free, and designed primarily for external clitoral stimulation. "Because they're lighter than a larger vibrator, you have more mobility," says Chavez. "They're more comfortable to use. And because they're so small and discreet and powerful, you can try them with clothes on."

And whenever you're jet-setting again, they're the perfect device to pack for a sexy getaway. "They're great for travel and also for pairing with other toys, like harnesses and dildos," adds Fine.

A couple of techniques to try: Push your legs together to play with the tension and contractions in your pelvic area while using the device, suggests Chavez. "Given a bullet vibe's small size, you can squeeze around it or contract around it or push your hips back and forth," she says. "You can also use it for clitoral stimulation during partnered sex, say, while in a doggy style position."

It's no wonder there are a wide variety of vibrators designed to hit the G-spot, which gets about as much buzz as it does eyebrow raises from skeptics. "It's really more like a G-area," explains Amy Baldwin, sex educator, sex and relationship coach, and co-host of the Shameless Sex Podcast . "Its size and location is different for everyone." Baldwin explains that the G-spot is located about half a finger's length inside the vaginal canal, up under the pubic bone on the wall behind your belly button — which is why G-spot vibrators usually have a curve at the end.

"The G-spot responds more to pressure as opposed to vibrations alone, so it's helpful to move the vibrator in a massaging come-hither motion," says Baldwin. Not only will the G-spot respond to this motion, but so will surrounding areas, as there are a bundle of nerve endings in that first inch of the vaginal canal.

Featuring a shaft and an extra "rabbit head" feature on the side of the device, a rabbit vibe truly gives you the best of both worlds: internal and external stimulation, explains Casey Tanner, certified sex therapist and expert for LELO . "While they can certainly be used during partnered sex, rabbit vibes are designed to mirror the sensations of partnered play during masturbation," she notes.

Chavez recommends experimenting with positioning when using a rabbit-style vibe, as you'll want the rabbit head to come in contact with your clitoris while achieving the right amount of depth and angle with the shaft portion. "Straddle a pillow or surface where you can hold the device and practice different movements with your hips to see if you can come into contact with spots that feel good," she advises.

Both the rabbit head and the shaft will offer their own set of vibrational patterns to try, as well. And Chavez notes that finding the combo you like the most could lead to a blended orgasm — the result of stimulating more than one erogenous zone at once.

The classic vibe is shaped more like a plastic, pointed cylinder than a realistic-looking shaft and generally features one vibrational pattern and a dial that allows for graduated intensity. A major benefit: "They're not as thick as a phallic-shaped device, so they may be more comfortable for internal stimulation, especially if you have any vaginal pain or tightness," says Chavez.

While straightforward penetration is an option, she recommends using it like a joystick — moving it in a circular motion or twisting it around. You can also use it externally to stimulate the clitoris. One of the best techniques for this type of model: placing it inside the inner labia and gliding and sliding against it (think a dry humping motion). "You're not only going to access the clitoris but the perineum, a fleshy patch between the vaginal opening and anus that has a lot of nerve endings," says Chavez.

The wand has come a long way since it was initially marketed as a corded body massager with two intensity settings: OMG and OMFG. Most models feature a sizeable handle and top portion shaped like the foam cover of an old-school microphone. "That large head covers more surface area of your clitoral area and vulva than other models," notes Chavez. "That's why it's been such a game-changer for orgasms. The power of the device, in general, is what can evoke an orgasm for a lot of women."

Meant for external use only, wand vibes — some of which are corded, while others are rechargeable or battery-operated — are generally known for packing a lot of powerful punch. For that reason, this is one Chavez emphasizes is best used at its lowest setting to start. Then you can find what level and vibrational pattern works best for you. Newer models are programmable, so you can remember which setting you liked best. Others will respond to the amount of pressure you put on them, dialing up the intensity autonomously, so you don't have to push any buttons.

Medically Reviewed by Dan Brennan, MD on June 27, 2021
Vibrators are sex toys that are used on the body to create sexual stimulation. Modern vibrators, also known as massagers, use electronic power to create vibrations or pulses. Vibrators come in many shapes and sizes.
Vibrators are used by placing the device on sensitive erogenous zones , which are places on your body that increase sexual pleasure. They can be used externally on the penis, vulva, clitoris and anus, or can be used internally in the anus or vagina. Continued stimulation can create feelings of sexual pleasure, and may eventually lead to orgasm .
Vibrators can be used alone or with a partner. Vibrator use is popular among both men and women of all sexual orientations. Over 43.8% of heterosexual males and 49.8% of homosexual men in the United States reported vibrator use, either alone or with partners. Another study found that 52.5% of women ages 18-60 in the United States have used a vibrator before.
Vibrators can increase feelings of sexual pleasure and make orgasms easier to achieve. Scientists are not entirely sure why vibrators feel good, but vibrators can help both men and women orgasm more quickly. As Debby Hebernick, the director of India University’s Center for Sexual Health Promotion, told Mic , different people may prefer different intensity levels of vibration, and some people may be more sensitive to vibration than others. There are many different types of vibrators, so some may be better suited for certain people than others.
Some surveys show that almost half of women are unhappy with how often they are able to reach orgasm. Orgasms release the hormone oxytocin, which can create feelings of affection or social bonding, and may increase feelings of happiness.
While many people enjoy vibrators, they are especially popular amongst women who have trouble orgasming through masturbation or penetration from a partner. Many sexual health experts suggest women experiencing these issues use a vibrator to help them achieve orgasm more easily.
Vibrators may also be helpful for people who have low libido (“sex drive”), anorgasmia (a condition where a person cannot reach orgasm), motor or sensory disabilities, or conditions that prevent vaginal penetration.
One popular myth about vibrators is that overuse of vibrators can make sex without a vibrator less fulfilling. However, vibrators do not numb the genitals or make your genitals less sensitive to non-electronic stimulation.
In fact, one study found that only 11% of vibrator users reported genital numbness on occasion, and only 3% said that they experienced genital numbing frequently.
Vibrators are safe to use. Research shows that side effects related to vibrator use are extremely rare.
There are many different styles of vibrators. Some styles are meant for insertion, while others are not. Additionally, some may vibrate more strongly than others. Some vibrators plug into the wall while others are battery operated. You may want to do some research to pick a vibrator that will satisfy your needs, although many vibrators have a variety of possible uses and vibration strength settings.
Lube may also help make vibrator use more pleasurable. As Lauren Streicher, MD, explains in Women's Health Magazine , it is important to make sure that the lube is compatible with your toy. Usually, water-based lubes are best.
It is important to read the directions of the vibrator before using. Do not insert vibrators anally if the vibrator is not meant for anal insertion.
Talking to Your Partner About Trying Vibrators
You can use vibrators alone or with a partner. You may find that these toys help to increase your physical excitement before intercourse, or may help you achieve orgasm. When talking with your partner, you may find it helpful to explain that using a vibrator may help you achieve certain sensations that are not possible without it.
It may be helpful to familiarize yourself with your vibrator before using it with a partner. Play around with the different settings, and figure out different spots on your body that may feel good.
It is very important to always clean your vibrator, as bacteria left on the toy can cause infections like urinary tract infections . Cleaning is especially important when you have used your vibrator with a partner, or when it may have touched your anus.
Hard plastic and silicone toys are easiest to clean with anti-bacterial soap and cool or warm water. Most vibrators can be lightly immersed in water, but read the instructions to find out if your silicone toy can be cleaned in the dishwasher.
Brown University: “What’s the best way to clean sex toys?”
Indian Journal of Endocrinology and Metabolism : “The orgasmic history of oxytocin: Love, lust and labor.”
Journal of Sex and Marital Therapy : “Vibrator Use Among Heterosexual Men Varies by Partnership Status: Results from a Nationally Representative Study in the United States.”
Journal of Sexual Medicine : “Characteristics of Vibrator Use by Gay and Bisexually Identified Men in the United States.”
Journal of Sexual Medicine : “Female Sexual Dysfunction- Medical and Psychological Treatments, Committee 14.”
Journal of Sexual Medicine : “Prevalence and Characteristics of Vibrator Use by Women in the United States: Results from a Nationally Representative Study.”
MedlinePlus: “Orgasmic dysfunction in women.”
Mic: “The Buzzworth Science Behind Why Your Vibrator Feels So Damn Good.”
Psychology Today: “Vibrators: Myths vs. Truth.”
Sexual and Relationship Therapy : “Genital vibration for sexual function and enhancement: best practice recommendations for choosing and safely using a vibrator.”
Women’s Health: “6 Things Every Woman Should Know About Using a Vibrator.”
© 2005 - 2022 WebMD LLC. All rights reserved.
WebMD does not provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.

By Samantha Olson Published: Jan 11, 2022
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Here's what you need to know before catching ~vibes.~
Figuring out how to navigate your sexuality can be overwhelming — especially if it's your first time or you don't have much experience. When it comes to masturbation , you may not know where to begin or how to even do it. And, while your fingers can help you get there, there are other options to explore when it comes to solo sex — enter, the vibrator.
Doing anything for the first time can be pretty intimidating, so if you're stuck on how to use a vibrator, we've got you covered. Seventeen spoke to Dr. Jennifer Lincoln, Medical Advisor for The Body Agency , and Jenn Chang, Head of Product Design at sex and wellness brand Cake to debunk masturbation myths, break down all the best practices and tips for using vibrators, and explain why vibrators aren't as intimidating as you may think.
Believe it or not, solo sex is totally normal and can actually help your mental and physical health. A study by the Indian Journal of Psychological Medicine found that masturbating helps release tension in your body.
"Masturbation is a great stress reliever and the beauty of it is you don't need to rely on anyone to help you out with it," Dr. Lincoln says. "It's also been linked to helping people fall asleep, so if you're suffering from insomnia, you might want to try it out."
Solo sex not only helps you figure out what gives you pleasure but helps you feel more confident during partnered sex, which can lead to more fulfilling and healthy relationships. Dr. Lincoln adds that there's no risk of sexually transmitted infections or pregnancy with masturbation.
While your hands are great tools for masturbating, using a vibe will make your ~alone time~ much more fun. From bullet vibrators to those more advanced, rabbit-inspired toys, there are plenty of options out there to explore different methods of self-pleasure. According to a study by the U.S. Library of Medicine , vibrations increase blood flow and improve both pelvic muscle tone and relaxation, and they're more likely to help you orgasm.
"Vibrators can be great as they can add extra stimulation to wherever feels good for you, whether it's the clitoris, in the vagina, or other erogenous zones," Dr. Lincoln explains. "The ability to take your orgasms into your own hands (and that of your vibrator) is a fantastic way to take charge of your sex life and your pleasure."
For more info on erogenous zones and other factors that come with sexual pleasure, Dr. Lincoln also addresses the stigma around masturbation and debunks sex toy myths on her YouTube channel .
In reality, using a vibrator comes down to your sexual preferences and what makes you feel comfortable.
"Set the mood, take your time, and explore," Jenn suggests. "Find a setting you think is fun and use it on different parts of your body to see how it feels. Remember — there's no 'right' way to pleasure yourself."
However, there are several things to know before you invest in one of your own. To make sure you catch the exact kind of vibe you want, follow the tips below.
Before you drop some money on a vibrator, read alllll the reviews. The style may work well for some people, but it may not be a fit for others. Use specific keywords to find reviews from others looking for a similar experience as you.
"It's great to know that different kinds of vibrators exist in size, shape, and vibration options, but I think it's a very personal decision," Dr. Lincoln says. "The beauty of the internet is that you can virtually browse and purchase one that you think might be right for you without having to step into a store if you are worried about keeping things private."
This is a given, but reading the instructions on your new tool will help you ease into it. Plus, there may be a few settings and features that you'd probably be unaware of unless you read the instructions. It's important to understand how the product is meant to be used before you dive into it.
"Toys are meant to bring fun into your experience. Make sure you're in a comfortable space mentally and physically," Jenn says. "If it's your first time, I'd recommend using less daunting toys and start simple. Cake's Bullet Vibe is the perfect toy for beginners who are looking for something to start with."
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