Using a vibrator is a fun and exciting way to get intimate with your partner. But, it’s important to know how to use a vibrator safely.
Whether you have an oiled-up or a dry one, washing your vibe after every use is essential for hygiene and to reduce the risk of STI transmission.
Vaginal Stimulation
While you may think of your vibrator as a sex toy that is only to be used for penetration during sex, they are actually incredibly useful in stimulating the entire vagina. This is especially true if you have any kind of clitoral atrophy, a condition that can happen as a result of a decrease in estrogen.
Basically, the clitoral hood (or glans) of your clitoris becomes thinner and dry over time, which can make penetration painful or even impossible without the right type of stimulation. This is where the vibrator really comes into play, and there are a few different ways you can use it.
For instance, if you have a bullet-type or wand-type vibrator, you can insert it into the clitoral hood and run it along its length, making any type of circular motions that feel good to you. Or, you can also hold it in place pressed against her clitoris or vulva area and simply stroking or rubbing that spot.
For more vaginal stimulation, you can also try angling your vibrator toward the G-spot. This is the curved area of the vulva behind the cervix, and it can be very sensitive. Just add some lube and experiment with the speed and pressure to find what feels best. Just be careful not to push too hard, as you can cause pain and numbness.
Clitoral Stimulation
There’s a big myth out there that vibrators are exclusively for masturbation, but experts say it’s not true. Vibrators can heighten arousal during solo play, inspire exploration and conversation with a partner, encourage you to have sex when you’re not spontaneously in the mood, and intensify orgasms during sex.
For internal stimulation, sex expert Anne Louise Burdett of TOCA, an organic CBD line of intimacy lubricants, suggests putting your fingers in a peace sign and, with plenty of lube, slowly moving them up and down the inner edges of your lips, around your inner thighs, and on up to your clitoris. This area is extremely sensitive and will be even more so with a vibrator, she says.
You can also use a small vibrator like a bullet with a strap-on to stimulate the nipples, balls, or frenulum under your penis during missionary intercourse. And, if you’re lucky enough to have a vulva-having partner who consents to it, a vibrator can also be used to pleasure the G-spot.
A good vibrator will have multiple speeds, and you’ll want to try them all out during the first few tries to learn what feels best. And, don’t forget to clean your sex toy, as porous materials like silicone can lead to unintentional bacteria transfer. The safest options are medical-grade silicone, borosilicate glass, and metals like stainless steel or aluminum, as explained by Planned Parenthood.
Back Stimulation
For those looking for an alternative to vaginal stimulation, there are vibrators meant specifically for the back. These are often small and slim, allowing for easy back penetration. They can also be used to stimulate the nipples or the sensitive frenulum just under the head of the penis. Some women also find a vibrator’s curved end stimulating the G-spot, which is an area in the vulva that becomes enlarged when aroused.
As with any sex toy, experts recommend getting in the right mood before attempting to use it. A relaxing bath or music can help set the stage, and it’s best to start on a low setting so you don’t go too fast.
It’s also a good idea to add some lube to the mix. Fleming says the mind associates wetness with arousal and can heighten pleasure. And, as noted earlier, it’s important to remember that what feels great one day may feel different tomorrow.
Vibrators are a regular part of many couples’ bedroom routines and can enhance the intimacy of long-partnered relationships, especially as they become more familiar with each other’s sensual areas. Plus, it can be a fun way to explore new sensations with your boo or toy with friends (though, as discussed earlier, using a toy in public is a whole other story). It’s just a matter of knowing which type of vibe to choose and how to use it so that you get the most out of your experience.
Inner Wrist Stimulation
The inner wrist is a rarely explored erogenous zone that responds to gentle caresses and tickling. This area can also receive arousal from massage and acupressure and may be stimulated with vibrators designed for this purpose. One example is the wand vibrator that features an internal arm for the wrist, or another option is a clitoral sucking vibrator that delivers rumbly stimulation when pressed against the inner wrist.
Many finger vibes have a longer internal arm for G-spot stimulation and a shorter external arm for clitoral stimulation. This means you can use them to target different areas of your body, or even penetrative sex with a male partner. The length of the internal arm and its vibration intensity can be adjusted independently, depending on your preferences.
A few key things to remember when using a finger vibrator include using lubrication, and avoiding repetitive use or prolonged contact, which can lead to desensitization. Water-based lube pairs best with finger vibes, as it’s the most similar to your natural vaginal lubrication and won’t degrade the silicone or latex of the toy. Many people find that listening to erotic audio while masturbating inspires stronger orgasms. And last but not least, be sure to check that your toy is safe for use during pregnancy. If you’re unsure, consult a healthcare professional.
