Sex toys: frequently asked questions
Vibrators, dildos, inflatable dolls, geisha balls... Perhaps you know of some of these accessories, but do you know exactly what they are? Doctissimo answers some of the most frequently asked sex toy questions.
1. What’s the difference between a dildo and a vibrator?
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A dildo is a phallic shaped object that does not vibrate (as do vibrators) and is meant for penetration purposes. A dildo can be used by either men or women as an artificial penis for both solitary pleasure or erotic games for two or more people. Sizes and models vary enormously: single or double (enabling double penetration for women); double with two heads (for use by two women together or for keeping hands free); dildos can be attached to a belt or fixed by suction pad.
Vibrators are also available in different sizes, colours and materials.
2. Are vibrators always penis-shaped?
No, more and more vibrators are available in non-penis shapes, favouring a shift in appearance to round, oval and pebble-shaped vibrators, etc
3. How can you vary and intensify the pleasure of touch?
Different things can help you to vary the voluptuous intensity of touch and caress. The most common are:
- Perfumed oils: very pleasant to use, they enable gentle and enveloping massage. You can purchase ready-made aromatic combinations or make your own fragrance by choosing a neutral oil and adding a few drops of essential oils.
- Talc: fresh and discreet, talc can be used on all parts of the body. It gives a satin feel and makes massage very gentle.
- Body milks: these create a different sensation, more fluid, light and scented
4. What are geisha balls?
Geisha balls are two balls linked by a cord which are inserted into the vagina. Each ball contains a steel ball bearing. When the vagina contracts, the balls knock into each other and trigger sexual pleasure. Different versions exist: textured or containing mini-vibrators for more sensation. They can be introduced into the vagina and worn during daily activities and outside of sexual relations. Be careful not to overuse though, prolonged use could cause irritation.
5. What are finger sex toys?
Worn like a thimble, these accessories are generally made from latex and covered in grooves or bumps to provide more sensation to intimate caresses, particularly for clitoral stimulation.
6. Can these accessories be used by couples?
Contrary to pre-conceived ideas, these accessories can be used by couples to create new erotic games for the pleasure of both partners... assuming they both consent. Some may be interested in trying new activities, but others will not experience any pleasure at the idea. In any case, only open communication will enable to understand each person’s desires more clearly. These accessories aim to increase pleasure; they should in no way be a chore or duty, even just to please your partner.
The other danger is that habitual use could make these gadgets necessary to obtain pleasure, underlying an imbalance within the relationship.
7. Do sexologists sometimes recommend using such accessories?
Doctissimo asked sexologist Marie-Hélène Colson: “Some sexologists may advise their patients to use a vibrator. For some women, orgasm can only be discovered by using this accessory. The vibrations produced, more intense than hand movements, can help women to experience their first orgasm (clitoral, of course). However, this is only one step in the search for physical pleasure and this accessory should not encroach on other methods. It could otherwise create a sort of ‘dependency’ enclosing a woman in a strictly mechanical-based sexuality. Dildos are essentially fun accessories, often sought after by couples and are never prescribed by sexologists, even though some patients confess the desire to want to use them (for vaginal penetration in women, but also anal penetration in both partners) and need a therapist to free them from their feelings of guilt”.
8. What different types of ‘fun’ condoms are available?
For those seeking new dimensions of pleasure, ‘high-range’ or ‘high-tech’ condoms enable each person to choose according to their tastes or desires. Condom innovations have therefore multiplied, promising new sensations.
- Stimulating: textured, grooved, rippled... there’s no lack of new types of condoms.
- Scented: banana, orange, strawberry, vanilla, mint... there’s something to cater for all tastes and in all colours. Pleasure for both the eyes and the taste buds...
- Endurance: Emotional, impatient... sometimes it’s difficult to find the balance between your own and your partner's pleasure. To remedy this, several solutions are offered by condom manufacturers: specific shapes, greater thickness or anaesthetic gel.
9. Do vibrating accessories exist for men too?
Male stimulant accessories can be divided into three categories:
- Simple stimulators, not necessarily female genital shaped. They can procure different sensations by massaging the penis which is introduced into the sex toy;
- Artificial vaginas representing part of the female body with one or two realistic orifices, often made of latex and sometimes equipped with a vibrating device;
- Inflatable dolls are more complete, include several orifices and are available in different colours and sizes. Vibrating models are also available.
10. Which are the most realistic inflatable dolls?
Real Dolls are the new generation of inflatable dolls. They have cyber skin (a material promising skin-like sensation), a metallic skeleton giving them a certain rigidity and making them quite heavy (about 60 kg). They can be personalised (eye, hair, skin colour with different bodies and heads available). Realism does have a cost though; these dolls cost £4,000 apiece.
Copyright © 2010 Doctissimo
Posted 16.07.2010
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