Using a vibrator can be a game-changer when it comes to adding pleasure to your sexual experiences, and experimenting with vibrators can be half the fun. Of course, vibrators aren't for everyone, but it can still be a good idea to learn a bit about them.
A vibrator is a type of sex toy that - you guessed it - vibrates! The genitals, especially the clit, are responsive to vibration and using one can feel super sexy and arousing. Vibrators are either rechargeable or take batteries to power the vibration and come in a wide range of sizes, shapes, colors, and materials.
Some credit Cleopatra with inventing the first vibrator, but it’s probably just a myth. In reality, hand cranked, steam-powered, and electric vibrators were developed by a series of different inventors throughout the 1800s. Dr. Joseph Mortimer Granville is most commonly credited with the invention of the electric vibrator.
A vibrator is used on the genitals to provide sensation through vibration on this sensitive area. A vibrator has a motor inside and weights that rotate rapidly to generate the vibrations. Some people love the vibrating sensation, others not so much. Experiment to find out what works for you.
Place the vibrator against your clit or prostate, or another area that may feel pleasurable. Place the vibrator on a low vibration setting. Adjust the settings and position of the vibe to see what feels good. If the toy is designed for internal use, insert slowly into the vagina and try moving it around for different angles and sensations. Can be used solo or with a partner.
You may have heard of the Rabbit vibrator thanks to Sex and the City, but there’s good reason this toy is refenced so much in pop culture — it feels good. To use it, insert the larger “shaft” into the vagina and let the smaller “tickler” (which may be shaped like rabbit ears) vibrate against the clitoris on the outside. Adjust the vibration and other settings, and move the toy around for different positions and sensations. You can try the Rabbit solo or with a partner.
Place the ring around the penis and position at the base of the penis. Typically, the vibrating part is positioned at the top and is designed to vibrate against the clitoris during penis-in-vagina sex. But it’s up to you how you want to use it, go ahead, experiment!
A G-spot vibrator is curved, and may have a larger, rounded end. Insert the vibe into the vagina and curve it forward toward the belly button. Press firmly and rhythmically massage the toy against the G-spot. Experiment with higher and lower vibration levels, angles, and pressures.
Yes, it is safe to use a vibrator when you are pregnant, unless your doctor or midwife, or doula has advised you not to. Make sure that the toy is clean, especially when using inside the vagina.
It’s best to use a purpose built vibrator - and you can get some that are quite inexpensive. But in a pinch, the main part of a vibrating toothbrush can work for external clit stimulation (just don’t use the bristles and don’t put it inside you!).
Learning about, and experimenting with, vibrators can be lots of fun. You might find you love the sensation, or feel kinda meh about it. Either way, it can be a good idea to explore options before making up your mind. Once you understand what vibrators are and how they work, and if you like them, you can go to town.
Louise Bourchier, MPH
Louise Bourchier is a sex educator and sex researcher with 8 years experience in the field. She teaches about sexual health, sexual pleasure, and communication in relationships through workshops, live-streams, and with written content. Using a sex-positive approach, a dash of humour, and bag full of fun props, Louise’s style of sex education for adults is not what you got in high school! Since 2011 she has taught over a hundred workshops to a wide range of audiences, from university students, to refugees, to medical professionals, to adult store clientele. She has a Masters of Public Health, and is currently a PhD candidate.
