With National Sex Toy Day landing on the 4th November, when could be a better time to get the vibrator out? And aside from on just one day dedicated to celebrating self-pleasure – or pleasure with a partner – did you know that regularly using vibrators can provide all sorts of health benefits?
Here, we speak to sex and relationships expert Jess Alderson about why it really is in your best interests to make using one part of your day-to-day life, aside from the obvious.
What are the health benefits of using a vibrator?
"Using a vibrator can offer various health benefits for individuals, both physical and psychological. From enhancing sexual satisfaction to improving sleep quality and strengthening pelvic floor muscles, incorporating vibrators into your sexual routine can lead to improved overall wellbeing and a more fulfilling sex life," explains Alderson, also founder of dating app So Syncd.Let's take a closer look at what those boosts to our wellbeing are.
1. Enhanced sexual satisfaction
This is probably what you're reaching for the vibrator for initially, but it's only one of the many benefits you can enjoy."One of the key benefits of using a vibrator is that it can enhance sexual satisfaction. There are neurons in the clitoris that respond to vibration and light touch, and this may explain why vibrators are sexually stimulating, whilst sexual satisfaction is positively associated with wellbeing in both women and men," says Alderson.
You can use alone or with a partner.
2. Stress reduction
"Sexual activity, including masturbation with a vibrator, can release endorphins and reduce stress. The relaxation and pleasure it provides can help lower anxiety and tension, leading to a whole host of physical and mental health benefits," explains Alderson.This may help alleviate symptoms of depression and anxiety.
3. Improved sleep quality
As well as reducing cortisol levels and promoting relaxation, orgasms release serotonin.Our sexpert explains, "This hormone and neurotransmitter is required to make melatonin, a hormone that regulates your sleep-wake cycle. Using a vibrator to help you orgasm can have a positive impact on your sleep quality and, in turn, your life satisfaction and overall health."
4. Improved pelvic floor health
"Early research suggests that using a vibrator can improve your pelvic floor health by gently stimulating muscles in that area, causing them to relax and contract," says Alderson. Sounds great."This is especially important for women, as weakened pelvic floor muscles, which are often weakened when birthing a child, can lead to issues such as incontinence and reduced sexual pleasure."
5. Better body awareness
"Vibrators can help people become more in tune with their bodies and sexual desires, fostering a deeper sense of self-awareness and self-acceptance. Exploring and understanding your sexual desires is the first step to better communication around sex between partners, which can ultimately lead to a more fulfilling sex life," Alderson adds.Self-love has an impact on our mental and emotional health.
6. Pain relief
Obviously your vibrator isn't a permanent solution for more serious pain, but it can certainly help soothe some symptoms."Orgasms can act as natural painkillers, likely due to the release of endorphins. So, using a vibrator to help you orgasm may help alleviate pain from conditions such as menstrual cramps," Alderson explains.
7. Relationship benefits
Using vibrators can ultimately lead to more fulfilling relationships and deeper connections."The quality of the relationships in our lives is the most consistent predictor of our happiness. Using a vibrator can help to build intimacy and trust with a partner, as well as improve communication about sexual desires, in fact research has shown a rise in sex toy usage amongst couples," says Alderson.
And having strong and healthy social relationships has been shown to boost our overall wellbeing.
Plus, Alderson adds, "If you feel like your sex life has lost its spark, incorporating a vibrator can help rekindle the passion and excitement in your relationship. It can add a sense of novelty and experimentation to your routine, which can make your sex life more enjoyable."
Positive relationships can boost our overall wellbeing.
8. Relief from sexual dysfunction
A reminder that while standard vibrators may be used more often by women, anyone can enjoy them, as they come in all different shapes and sizes."For those experiencing sexual dysfunction, such as anorgasmia or erectile dysfunction, vibrators can be a helpful tool in achieving sexual pleasure and overcoming barriers to satisfaction. Using a vibrator can also help vaginal dryness by stimulating natural lubrication, making sex more comfortable and enjoyable," says Alderson of their benefits.
9. Relief from certain menopause symptoms
As well as people with pain, other groups of people like women going through menopause (typically between 45 and 55), might also particularly benefit, as things like sleep and mood can be affected."During menopause, the decline in oestrogen levels can cause vaginal dryness. Using a vibrator can also help stimulate natural lubrication, making sex more comfortable and enjoyable. It can also help boost libido by enhancing sexual pleasure and satisfaction," Alderson explains.
Certain groups of people might particularly benefit from vibrators.
10. Increased likelihood of orgasm
"Sex toys, such as vibrators, are also particularly useful for those who struggle to orgasm. They can help intensify orgasms and make it easier to achieve climax, which can be particularly helpful for those experiencing anorgasmia," says Alderson.Of course, some women in particular do have concerns about becoming over-reliant on a vibrator and struggling to climax without it. "While this can happen," Alderson acknowledges, "for most people, the positive effects outweigh the potential negatives. Research shows that using a vibrator is linked to higher levels of sexual desire and arousal, as well as proactively monitoring sexual health."
And of course, we know the health benefits of orgasm includes stress reduction and the many points above, but it's also thought to help with immunity and promote bone health.
So, before you grab one, here's what to be aware of.
The best material for a vibrator is medical-grade silicone, according to our sexpert.
Are vibrators safe to use during pregnancy?
"As long as you're enjoying a healthy, low-risk pregnancy, using a vibrator during this time is generally safe. The exceptions are if you are experiencing heavy bleeding, your waters have broken, you’ve had problems with your cervix, are expecting twins, or had a previous history of preterm labour. In these situations, you should discuss vibrator usage with your healthcare provider," Alderson explains."Vibrators don't penetrate further than your vagina, and during pregnancy, babies are protected by your uterus and an amniotic sac. On top of that, your cervix guards against infection. However, if you're pregnant, it's more important than ever to keep sex toys clean during pregnancy to minimise the risk of infection."
What materials are best for vibrators?
We want to ensure we are using vibrators made from non-toxic materials."It's always important to be mindful of what we put into our bodies. When choosing a vibrator, look for non-porous materials that don't leach toxins. Non-porous materials are smooth and free from tiny spaces that can harbour bacteria. A non-porous nature also makes vibrators water-resistant and easier to clean," says Alderson.
"The best material for a vibrator is medical-grade silicone. It fits the bill of being non-porous and body-safe. On top of that, it's flexible, hypoallergenic, and easy to clean. Non-medical grade silicone can contain chemicals that may be harmful, so it's important to check the label."