A vibrator—also referred to as a type of sex toy—is a massage tool often used during sexual activity. Vibrators are available in different forms but have the same general function: promoting arousal when placed close to or on the vagina, penis, or anus.
The tool's vibrations or pulses increase blood flow going toward the pelvic muscles, decrease delays in orgasms, and promote the experience of multiple orgasms. Here's what else you need to know about vibrators and using them.
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1. Vibrators Vary in Size, Shape, and Function
Vibrators are available in all shapes and sizes that can vibrate, pulse, and suck. External vibrators range from small bullets to large personal massager wands, which can simulate areas like the clitoris, vulva, perineum, penis, or testicles.
Some external vibrators designed for the clitoris also have a suction or licking action that helps mimic oral sex. Penis vibrators may also resemble vibrating rings or a sleeve.
2. Vibrators Can Provide Internal Stimulation
Internal vibrators can be inserted vaginally or anally and often pulsate or vibrate. You’ll also find these in various shapes, including cones for the anus or long curved shapes to help hit the vagina’s G-spot. If you use an internal anal vibrator, make sure it has a flanged base—a base that protrudes—so it doesn’t accidentally get lost in your rectum.
Dual-stimulation vibrators also give you the best of both worlds but are usually geared toward people with vaginas. These are often rabbit shaped or C-shaped so they can simulate the inside of the vagina and the clitoris at the same time.
3. They Promote Orgasms
Research has shown only 18% of people with vaginas orgasm from penetration alone, and 36.6% need clitoral stimulation to have an orgasm. However, a vibrator conveniently offers the clitoral stimulation necessary for many to climax.
“[Vibrators] act as power tools for intense orgasms,” Jenni Skyler, PhD, LMFT, a certified sex therapist and sexologist, told Health. “Especially for busy, tired, stressed, or lower-libido women, a vibrator kicks arousal into gear way faster than most any other means.”
4. They Don't Typically Cause Vaginal Problems
Using a vibrator may make your vagina and vulva feel numb. However, vibrator-induced numbness is pretty rare—and it's not permanent. Research has shown about 16.5% of folks with a vagina reported temporary and mild numbness. There is also no evidence that frequent vibrator damages vaginal nerve endings or causes the fictional "dead vagina syndrome."
If you do experience any temporary numbness, you’re probably just overstimulated. Try adjusting the settings or changing the angle or position of your vibrator. You can also take a break and let your body reset.
5. Vibrator Use Is Linked to Better Sexual Health
People who regularly use vibrators tend to take care of their sexual health more and experience better sexual function. Studies have shown that vibrator use can help improve sexual desire, erections, and orgasms in people with penises. It can also help improve arousal, lubrication, and orgasm for those with a vagina.
6. Some Vibrators Last Longer Than Others
Opt for silicone over other materials when choosing a vibrator. “It’s easy to clean and not a permeable material,” Carol Queen, PhD, a sexologist and curator of theGood Vibrations Antique Vibrator Museum, toldHealth. Permeable or porous materials (like jelly vibrators) can collect dirt and bacteria, which can then be transferred to the vagina and create an imbalance or even an infection.
Studies have also found that some unregulated jelly rubber vibrators contain phthalates, chemicals that may cause cancer. Additionally, choose vibrators carefully if you want longevity. Rubber toys can break down when they come into contact with latex condoms.
7. They Need to Be Cleaned Regularly
No matter the material of your vibrator, make sure you clean it after each use. Cleaning your vibrator can help prevent potential infections or passing sexually transmitted infections (STIs) if you share toys with a partner.
Use soap and water or antibacterial sprays. Depending on the model, some silicone vibrators can even go in the dishwasher, but always check what the manufacturer suggests.
8. Some Lubes Can Ruin Vibrators
Using a personal lubricant with a vibrator can make the experience even more slippery and enjoyable. It also reduces your risk of tearing and irritation. However, make sure you only use water-based lube with silicone sex toys.
Silicone- and oil-based lubes can both break down the surface of your silicone vibrator, resulting in tears and cracks in the toy's surface that can harbor bacteria. Silicone pre-lubricated condoms can also break down silicone vibrators if you're covering toys during partnered sex. Not only will you ruin your favorite vibrator with the wrong lube, but you may also increase your risk of infection.
9. Vibrators Have Different Features
You may be familiar with vibrators that are long and shaped like a penis. However, you may also find vibrators that are:
Bullet-shaped and smallC-shaped or U-shaped with internal and external partsDesigned to be worn on a finger or the penis with a ring-shaped openingHandheld with a flexible, vibrating headPebble-shaped with the ability to fit in your palm 10. Vibrator Use Requires Communication
Everyone may not be comfortable with using a vibrator, and consent in all aspects of sexual activity is important. You'll want to talk with your partner if either one of you is interested in using one during sex or on your own. It's also best to be honest about what you both generally want or need concerning sex.
It's also essential to communicate about any discomfort if partners agree to vibrator use. Communicating will let you and your partner know if any changes are necessary, like avoiding or limiting vibrator use or using a different type of vibrator.
A Quick Review
Vibrators are vibrating or pulsating tools that you can use internally or externally to promote arousal. They are available in many forms, shapes, and sizes and may have a few different features.
When taken care of and used properly, vibrators rarely cause genital-related issues. Talk with a partner if you're interested in using a vibrator so that everyone is aware of each other's wants and needs.