A toy is a self-pleasure device that can stimulate anatomically specific erogenous zones, like the vagina and vulva. Make sure you buy a toy that is high quality, capable of satisfying a partner and easy to clean.
Lesbians use toys to spice up sexual pleasure, just as straight couples do. Learn about the different types of toys and how to use them.
What is a toy?
A toy is a plaything or something that entertains people. People often use toys to have fun or to explore their sexual desires. Examples of toys are dolls, stuffed animals, and musical instruments. People also use toys for masturbation.
Some lesbians like to use toys for oral and internal stimulation during sex. For example, they might use rabbit vibes that stimulate the clitoris and internal hot spots at the same time. The toy can also free up their hands so they can caress other erogenous areas, such as the breasts or hips.
Adele Jackson-Gibson is a freelance journalist who has been writing and editing for eight years. Her work has appeared in Good Housekeeping, Prevention, The Nike Coaching Journal, and SELF. She identifies as queer and for this story she researched and demoed dozens of toys, read countless customer reviews, and interviewed queer sex educators.
What is a dildo?
A dildo is an outsized replica of the penis that’s inserted into a female body for penetrative pleasure. “Lesbians don’t use dildos because they want men,” says latex and erogenous toy designer Jeremy Sloane, who describes a dildo as a “fun tool to explore sexual sensations.”
The shaft is long enough to reach the G-spot and is flexible so that it can bend to hit different spots. The toy also has five speeds for different intensity levels, according to Wet For Her.
Sloane recommends washing the toy in warm water before and after each use and keeping a bottle of high-quality water-based lube nearby. And don’t forget to communicate with your partner about what feels good and when you’re ready for some more. This will make the experience even more exciting and sensual. It’s also a good idea to start with oral sex or mutual masturbation as a prelude to penetration and make sure that you both have a lot of lube on hand to keep things smooth.
What is a stimulator?
A stimulator is a toy that delivers pleasure to multiple erogenous zones. They are often crafted for oral, vaginal, and anal play, although many people enjoy using them in other ways as well. They are also used for masturbation and can be part of sexual fantasy and foreplay. Stimulators are typically made of body-safe materials, like 100% silicone or tempered glass and come in a range of sizes.
The most popular type of lesbian sex toy is the wand-style vibrator. It’s also possible to find models that are shaped to fit the anus, or that offer a clitoral stimulation. There are even sex toys that can be used by two partners at the same time, making them perfect for couples sex or long-distance play.
Remember, though, that sex with women can still result in pregnancy and STI transmission. So if you’re playing with a lesbian-designed toy, always use barrier protection methods (like condoms and dental dams) and don’t ever use a sex toy both vaginally and anally.
What is a lube?
A lubricant is a fluid or gel substance designed to help offset genital dryness that can make sex uncomfortable. It’s often used during sex and foreplay, but can also be applied to other erogenous areas as a moisturizer and for self-massage. Lubricants come in a variety of formulas, including water-based and silicone-based.
While the body naturally creates lubrication, there are many factors that may decrease this lubrication, such as aging, menopause, or health conditions like diabetes and certain medications. Using a personal lubricant helps to offset this dryness and makes sex more comfortable for both partners.
Choosing the right lubricant depends on your sexual preferences and comfort needs. For example, if you’re going to use a rabbit vibe or strap-on, stick with a water-based lube, says Jess Barra, FNP, nurse practitioner for sex and wellness site Favor. This will allow the toy to move freely and not erode over time, which could lead to infection.