Sex Toy Benefits
Studies on sex toys mostly show that using them is common and that, in the case of vibrators, it is associated with better sexual function; for physical health, sleep or stress the evidence is limited. In national US surveys, 52.5% of 2,056 women aged 18 to 60 had used a vibrator, according to a representative online survey; in another population survey of 1,047 men aged 18 to 60, 44.8% said they had used one, alone or with a partner (Herbenick et al., 2009; Reece et al., 2009).
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Physical health: what we know
Sexual arousal increases blood flow to the genital area, as part of the normal sexual response. We haven't found studies showing that a sex toy improves genital health.
Kegel balls are often used alongside pelvic floor exercises. If you want to treat urine leakage or recover after childbirth, ask a specialist physiotherapist for guidance.
Some people say that orgasm eases their period cramps, but we haven't found solid studies that confirm it. If the pain is severe or stops you from going about your normal life, talk to your doctor.
After orgasm, oxytocin and prolactin are released, hormones associated with relaxation and drowsiness. In an online survey of 778 adults from the general population, 63.1% felt they slept better when they had sex with a partner before going to sleep, and the study did not look at sex toys (Lastella et al., 2019).
Science fact: A study in the Journal of Sexual Medicine (2009) of 2,056 women found that recent vibrator users scored higher on most areas of sexual function (desire, arousal, lubrication, orgasm, pain and overall function). This is an association: the study does not prove that the vibrator causes the difference.
Emotional wellbeing
Explore your body and find out what you really like.
Exploring with sex toys helps many people feel more confident about their own pleasure.
Some observational studies find that people who are regularly sexually active report less anxiety, but they do not prove that sex, let alone a sex toy, reduces anxiety.
As a couple
To bring in a sex toy, you first need to talk about what you do and don't want.
Bringing in sex toys is a simple way to try new things and get out of your routine as a couple.
In a sample of more than 52,000 US adults, 95% of heterosexual men said they usually or always reached orgasm in sexual encounters, compared with 65% of heterosexual women (Frederick et al., 2018). The study did not look at sex toys, but it did find that women who reached orgasm more often received more oral sex, had longer encounters and tried more new things.
For many couples, sex toys are one more excuse to make time for each other.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are sex toys only for people without a partner?
No. In fact, many people use sex toys with a partner. In a national survey in Germany, 52% of 1,723 heterosexual adults said they used them in partnered sex (Döring et al., 2020).
Does using sex toys mean something is wrong with my sex life?
Absolutely not. Sex toys are an addition, not a replacement. People with satisfying sex lives use them to explore new sensations and keep the spark alive.
Can I become dependent on a vibrator?
We haven't found studies describing addiction to vibrators. In the survey by Herbenick et al. (2009, Journal of Sexual Medicine) use was associated with better sexual function and rarely with side effects: most women (71.5%) said they had never noticed any related genital symptoms. If you notice discomfort or numbness that doesn't go away, stop using it and talk to your doctor.
Which sex toy is best to start with?
For beginners we recommend a small medical-grade silicone vibrator. See our guide to choosing your first sex toy.
Keep reading
How to Choose Your First Sex Toy
Beginner's guide
Vibrator Guide
Types and how to choose
Body-Safe Materials
Body-safe and more