Sex toys have come a long way since 54BC when Cleopatra created the first vibrator by putting a swarm of angry bees into a hollowed-out fruit shell. Now mainstream due to the likes of Sex and the City and the Fifty Shades of Grey phenomenon, sex toys are more openly available and come in a variety of appealing colours, shapes, sizes and materials.
A fantastic addition to any bedroom scenario, sex toys promote sexual freedom between partners. Whether you are looking to heighten your sexual pleasure or perhaps give yourself a little break from various sexual activities, sex toys have a lot to offer. They are also great for those with disabilities or erectile dysfunction allowing them to achieve sexual fulfilment and intimacy in ways they were unable to explore before.
But whilst sex toys can be great fun as part of partnered sex, there are certain things we should all be aware of to prevent sexual transmitted diseases and to have the best possible sex toy experiences:
1) Practice sex toys on yourself first
If you’re planning to use a sex toy with a new partner it is best to experiment on your own first so you learn the ins and outs of how to use it and what settings, and positions would best stimulate your partner and yourself.
2) Communicate with your partner and only experiment with what you feel comfortable with
Make sure you communicate your desires to experiment with sex toys with a partner and always look to start small and at a level that suits you both. Communication is key!
3) Use the right toys for the job
It’s very important to use the right sex toys for the right purpose. Using your toys inappropriately with a partner could lead to potentially very damaging and embarrassing problems.
For example, toys such as the ‘bullet’ vibrator offer compact powerful stimulation for the clitoris and outside the vulva but pose a problem if they are then inserted. Usually less than 6 inches in length, a bullet vibrator could get lost if used in this way, and result in a very embarrassing trip to A&E.
Anal toys in particular should always be smooth without seams and have a flared base for easy removal.
So when thinking of adding sex toys to the mix, always research and read instructions on how to use them in the right way.
4) Clean your sex toys
Always, always, always wash your sex toys before and after use if you want to prevent sexually transmitted diseases and infections. Most sex toys should come with advice as to how best to clean and store them but if they don’t simply use plenty of hot soapy water or a recommended antibacterial sex toy cleaner.
5) Use condoms on your sex toys
Where possible use a condom on your sex toys when sharing with a partner as it keeps a good level of hygiene and lowers the risk of spreading and sharing sexual transmitted diseases and infections.
6) Vary your vibrations
Believe it or not repetitive use of one vibrator can over stimulate the clitoris and even cause numbness or pain. Now we’re not saying not to use your favourite vibrator or vibrators at all but change the settings from now and then and experiment with different toys to keep it fresh and yourself stimulated in the right way.
7) Don’t use massage oil as lubricant
Massage Oils break down condom rubber. Chose a water based lubricant instead, like ID Moments Water Based Lubricant as it is glycerine and paraben free which is great for those with sensitive skin or prone to yeast infections.
8) Check your sex toys
Check your sex toys regularly for any scratches or breaks in the surface material where germs could be present and spread, increasing the risk of infection.
9) Be aware of sex toy materials
You really do get what you pay for when it comes to buying sex toys. Be wary of toys that have that “new car smell” or lay claim to being merely “novelty items” as they are likely to contain chemicals such as phthalates which are harmful to your body.
Plastic and jelly rubber are the main culprits of using phthalates to soften and shape their toys which can have adverse affects on the reproductive process and are linked to increased instances of birth defects and sperm damage. But, whilst these sex toys may not be ideal for your health, they usually are very appealing due to low cost, texture and the stimulation they provide. So if you own or buy a toy that is made of porous material (or you aren’t sure what it is made of), be safe and make sure you use a condom.
Sex toys safest for your body and peace of mind are those made from high quality, hygienic materials from trusted manufacturers. These include medical grade silicone, stainless steel and glass (Pyrex) and are body friendly, have longer life spans and are easier to clean and look after.
10) Don’t go from back to front
Transferring a sex toy from your anus to your vagina or vice versa holds potential health risks for infections and should be avoided unless you have cleaned the toy thoroughly first. Using condoms are also a great way of staying safe and protected against infections.
11) If it is too big, or in the wrong place don’t force it
It’s not always about size and a large dildo doesn’t always do the trick for everyone!
This may sound obvious to you but it really is important to avoid forcing objects into yours or your partners anus or vagina as it could do some serious damage. Remember to take it slowly and use plenty of water-based lubricant to help ease your toy in. If this still does not work or either of you feel uncomfortable stop straight away. There are loads of sex toys out there to help progressive play especially when it comes to anal sex, so fear not there will be something out there for you.