How to use a vibrator for the best orgasms *ever* Marie Claire UK

Not sure how to use a vibrator? Here, two sex experts share their top tips, plus how to use the popular sex toy for intense pleasure.
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What is a vibrator?
First things first: a breakdown of what the toy actually is, as there are loads of different types of vibrator. “The term vibrator covers a range of different sex toys and massagers which are designed to mechanically stimulate our bodies in a variety of ways,” explains Kotziamani.
Some are designed for internal use - that is, to be designed to be inserted into the vagina or anus, some are shaped to give specific G spot or prostate stimulation, and some are designed for use externally (think stimulation of the clitoris or other erogenous zones). “Good toys for clitoral stimulation include bullet vibrators, wand massagers, and suction devices,” she continues.
Of course, some can be used for both - we’re looking at you, rabbit vibrators - with dual function increasingly a priority for those after cost-effective options, too.
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Wondering how they’re powered? Well, it’ll depend on the type you buy. “They can be powered by batteries, rechargeable, solo-powered, mains powered, and even hand-cranked,” explains Cooper. “The most common vibrator on sale now are rechargeable vibrators as more people move towards sustainability and eco-friendly sex tech.” (Read our guide to the best sustainable sex toys, here).
They work by using internal moving motors that vibrate and massage your body, heightening nerve endings, promoting blood flow, and turning the body on.
When were vibrators invented?
While we don’t definitively know when vibrators were invented, there have been some amazing myths over time, shares Cooper. “One suggested that vibrators were invented by Victorian doctors to treat women suffering from hysteria, which we now know isn’t true,” she continues.
While some vibrators have been created and marketed as medical devices, often to get around advertising restrictions, it’s likely they weren’t invented solely with this aim in mind. “Sex toys were openly advertised for male sexual dysfunction way before enjoyment,” Cooper adds.
Come the ’90s and Sex and The City made wand vibrators a mainstay thanks to Samantha’s enthusiasm for the toy.
(Image credit: Getty Images)
How to use a vibrator: your guide
1. Check the instructions
Now you know what a vibrator is, let our experts explain how to use one. Cooper reckons that a good starting point is checking the instructions. “This is helpful as some vibrators will have different buttons, functions, and even set-up requirements,” she shares.
Do note: many vibes also can arrive in travel lock mode. “Don’t return a sex toy in travel lock thinking it’s faulty when in, fact, you could’ve gotten it working by turning that off,” warns Cooper.
2. Be prepared
By this, Cooper means to make sure you have a body-safe lubricant on hand. “If a vibrator is made from silicone, then opting for a water based lubricant is important to avoid damage to your sex toy,” she shares.
Other vibrator materials such as plastic or metal can allow you the option to use other lubricants such as silicone or oil-base without worry.
Read our guide to the best lubes, here.
(Image credit: Getty Images)
3. Start low and slow
So, you’ve read the instructions and lubed up. Now - it’s time to turn your toy on.
Try this: “Start on the lower setting and then move on to using the vibrator over your vulva,” she recommends. “Slowly teasing your body awake, explore the vibrator settings and begin to find the right type of buzz for you.”
Kotziamani agrees, pointing out that it’s important not to jump in using a new device directly on very sensitive parts of your body, like your clitoris, without testing the strength and settings first. “Most devices nowadays will have a range of intensities, speeds or motions and it’s best to try these in advance on the back or palm of your hand,” she recommends. “Then, progress to more sensitive areas when you know what to expect.”
4. Don’t worry if you need to warm up, first
Another top tip: if the vibrator is of average size or larger, it’s normal to need to use a smaller vibrator or fingers to warm up for insertion, reassures Cooper.
“When you’re ready to use your vibrator and explore penetration, start with inserting the tip into your vagina,” she advises. “Then, work to move its shaft into your body slowly.”
As Kotziamani points out, there’s no right or wrong way to use a toy. It’s all about whatever works for you.
(Image credit: Getty Images)
5. Explore with your motions
Depending on the shape of the vibrator, you may find using a thrusting motion, rocking, or twisting motion feels good for you, shares the sex expert.
“Sometimes a particular motion will become your go-to way for using a vibrator, but it’s always worth mixing it up and exploring different ways to use your sex toys,” advises Cooper. “It could lead to exciting pleasure opportunities.”
Ordered a toy and not sure if it’s for you? Cooper advises giving it another go. “A pillow under your buttock or abdomen can also help make it more pleasurable and comfortable to use some vibrator shapes,” she shares.
Kotzimini agrees, adding: “It’s important to remember that not all vibrators are created equal and not all will suit your body.” Her advice? “Try out a couple of options to see what suits you best, or go and talk to someone in a shop or who has a great deal of knowledge.”
Our guide to the best sex toys will help, too.
6. Remember to wash your toy, too
Last but by no means least, do remember to wash your vibrator after use with your standard antibacterial soap and water.
“If your sex toy isn’t waterproof, make sure you wipe it clean rather than submerge it in water,” Cooper adds.
Top tips for using a vibrator:
- The stronger the vibrator, the more lubricant you will need to reapply to keep the sensations enjoyable.
- Using a vibrator over your underwear can change how the vibrations feel, and can make vibrators which feel too much when directly placed on the body feel good.
- Read sex toy reviews when picking your sex toy as they can give you a better idea of the functions you may enjoy and extra tips on how to use the vibrator differently.
- When using a vibrator even during solo sex and masturbation remember to mix-up the position you’re in as this can lead to different sensations.
- If your clitoris or vulva starts to feel numb, stop using the vibrator in that area for a moment and apply more lubricant or use a different style of vibrations to wake the nerves up again.
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FAQ
Is it normal to bleed after using a vibrater?
Post coital bleeding can occur with discharge, itching, or irritation. PCB may occur just once as a single episode or may occur repeatedly. It can occur at any age with sexual penetrative intercourse or with using a sexual toy or vibrator.
What are the effects of a vibrator on the human body?
Vibration can cause changes in tendons, muscles, bones and joints, and can affect the nervous system. Collectively, these effects are known as hand-arm vibration syndrome.
Why does vibration feel so good?
Why does vibration feel so good? Vibration is inherently relaxing for most people, assuming it isn’t applied too suddenly or intensely or in an uncomfortable location.5 Nov 2024
Is it normal to bleed after using a vibrater?
Post coital bleeding can occur with discharge, itching, or irritation. PCB may occur just once as a single episode or may occur repeatedly. It can occur at any age with sexual penetrative intercourse or with using a sexual toy or vibrator.
What are the effects of a vibrator on the human body?
Vibration can cause changes in tendons, muscles, bones and joints, and can affect the nervous system. Collectively, these effects are known as hand-arm vibration syndrome.
Why does vibration feel so good?
Why does vibration feel so good? Vibration is inherently relaxing for most people, assuming it isn’t applied too suddenly or intensely or in an uncomfortable location.5 Nov 2024
DesireRead.com provides guides on using various vibrators, including bullet and rabbit types, to enhance your pleasure. Learn techniques and tips for maximizing your experience with these toys.
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