Vibrators or intimate massagers are among the most popular sex toys used by women. According to research from 2017, 69% of women own vibrators. Given that the pandemic led to an explosion in the sex toy industry, one can only imagine how much their usage has increased since then. With their rising popularity, it is natural to wonder how vibrators impact women’s health. In this blog post, we will explore the pros and cons of vibrators, shedding light on their benefits and potential drawbacks.
The Pros Of Vibrators On Women’s Health
1. Enhanced sexual satisfaction and treatment of sexual dysfunction
First and foremost, vibrators provide immense sexual satisfaction. According to research, women who use vibrators have markedly better arousal, vaginal lubrication, and orgasms than women who don’t use them. Therefore, vibrators are not just pleasure devices, but they are also used to treat female sexual dysfunction. Female sexual dysfunction is the medical term for any problem that prevents a female from experiencing sexual satisfaction or engaging in sexual activity. It can occur at any age, and many women experience it at some point in their life.
Sexual dysfunction can be categorized into four types: desire or interest disorders, arousal disorders, orgasm disorders, and pain disorders. Vibrators help ease the symptoms of all these disorders, resulting in increased sexual desire and arousal, the ability to orgasm and decreased pain during sex. Little wonder then that researchers suggest doctors prescribe them to female patients for regular use, not as sex toys but as medical therapy devices.
2. Decreased stress and anxiety
Whether they are used to masturbate or as toys in partnered sex, vibrators enhance your mental health by reducing stress and anxiety. Masturbation releases dopamine, a chemical that boosts mood and keeps you alert and energetic. Orgasm, whether through masturbation or partnered sex, releases oxytocin, a chemical that reduces your stress. It works by reducing cortisol, a hormone released in excess as a response to stress. While our body needs cortisol to function normally, high levels cause a range of health problems like anxiety, depression, and high blood pressure. Vibrator-induced orgasms naturally regulate cortisol, thereby promoting a calm state of mind.
The rhythmic vibrations of a personal massager also relax tense muscles, which are a trademark of those who are stressed and anxious. Tense muscles cause pain and stiffness across the body, such as the head, neck, shoulders, back, and legs. By promoting muscle relaxation, vibrators help you feel physically relaxed. A relaxed mind and body also improve your sleep quality, and better sleep quality not only regulates your mood but also lessens stress and anxiety.
3. Reduced period pain
Everyone who menstruates knows about the dreaded cramps that come with it. Menstrual cramps are throbbing sensations or dull aches in the lower abdomen that occur before or during your period. Every menstruator has a unique experience with period pain. Some women don’t get any cramps, while most undergo mild discomfort. However, a significant number of women, typically those with endometriosis or PCOS, get cramps painful enough to disrupt their daily routine.
While medication like paracetamol and cures like hot water bottles can alleviate period pain, there is a far more natural treatment for this issue: masturbation. Indeed, using a vibrator to orgasm has been shown to reduce menstrual cramps. If you can’t stand the idea of masturbating or orgasming on your period, simply put your vibrator on your lower abdomen and move it in a downward direction at a vibration speed of your choice. Since this is a sensitive area, particularly when you are menstruating, begin with the lowest possible setting and increase the intensity gradually. To reduce the risk of infection or irritation, make sure your vibrator is squeaky clean. For safety reasons, it’s best to consult your gynecologist beforehand.
4. Promote empowerment and body positivity
Vibrators empower women in several ways. Whether you use a simple yet effective toy like the Lovense Smart Lipstick Bullet Vibrator or a unique temperature-changing gizmo like the Deia Hot and Cold G-Spot Vibrator, your vibrator is your tool for self-pleasure and sexual exploration. You can explore your desires, preferences, and boundaries safely and whenever you like – that too, without a partner. If you yearn for complete sexual agency, a vibrator is the best female sex toy for you.
Next, personal massagers encourage women to explore their bodies. By learning what feels pleasurable (and what doesn’t), vibrator users become more comfortable with their sexuality over time. Self-exploration also helps women combat negative body image, something most of us suffer from. How does this work? By shifting your focus from appearance to pleasure, your trusted vibe helps promote body positivity.
The Cons Of Vibrators On Women’s Health
1. Exposure to harmful chemicals
Cheap, unbranded vibrators often consist of materials containing phthalates, parabens, or other toxic substances, which pose health risks such as skin irritation, allergic reactions, or hormone disruption. Frequent exposure to these chemicals is likely to have adverse effects on your reproductive health and overall well-being. The only way to prevent exposure to harmful chemicals is to avoid poor-quality vibrators.
Whether you are purchasing your first or fourth vibrator, always check that it is made from body-safe materials like pure silicone, borosilicate glass, and ABS plastic. As a rule of thumb, body-safe vibrators are nonporous, hypoallergenic, odor-free, and easy to clean. Always read the list of materials on the label and research before you make a purchase. Additionally, if you have any allergies, review product specifications carefully to avoid materials you are allergic to.
2. Risk of bacterial infection and STIs
Many of us use vibrators to avoid the risk of sexually transmitted infections. So it’s ironic that improper vibrator use can cause both STIs and bacterial infection. Ultimately, it all boils down to how hygienic you are. Improper cleaning of vibrators can lead to the accumulation of bacteria, which may increase the risk of bacterial infections, such as urinary tract infections (UTIs) or bacterial vaginosis (BV). Clean your vibe before and after each use with mild soap and water or a toy cleaner to avoid bacterial infection. During partnered play, use condoms to minimize the risk of bacterial infection.
Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs) like herpes are transmitted through contact with infected bodily fluids, including vaginal, penile, or anal secretions. Using an unclean massager with a partner can also increase the risk of STI transmission. Again, use condoms during partnered sex to reduce the risk of STIs. Also, get routinely tested for STIs, and avoid sharing your toy with untested partners. For good measure, use separate vibrators for vaginal, anal, and oral stimulation; doing so will prevent cross-contamination. Lastly, replace your vibrator when it shows signs of wear and tear, and always store it in a clean, dry place.
3. Shame
While we have come a long way in the realm of pleasure products, there is still ample stigma associated with using them, particularly when it comes to women. Much of the stigma is also internalized. Overcome the stigma within by assuring yourself that there’s nothing wrong with using a vibrator. When you stop feeling guilty about experiencing pleasure, you will no longer feel ashamed of being a sex toy owner.
To combat social stigma, do your bit to promote a sex-positive attitude within your social circles. First, use the power of the Internet to educate yourself about human sexuality. Second, initiate non-judgmental conversations about sex with friends and family. Speak up and challenge outdated beliefs that cause shame and judgment. Third, support organizations and campaigns that promote sex positivity and sex education. Lastly, try your best to lead by example by encouraging healthy attitudes and behaviors towards sex in your relationships.
4. Addiction
One cannot get addicted to or overuse a vibrator; this is simply a myth and there is no research to back it up. That said, one can become overdependent on vibrators to achieve sexual pleasure or orgasm, leading to a sole reliance on vibrator-induced stimulation. This can affect your romantic relationship because your partner may feel excluded or inadequate. The best way to combat this is to explore alternative methods of intimacy so that you can teach your body to experience sexual pleasure in several ways. If you feel your adult toy is having a negative impact on your relationships, consult a therapist for professional guidance and support.
When you pick a good quality vibrator that’s right for you, have open conversations with your partner, and use it as instructed, it can revolutionize your sex life. The question is: are you ready?
