Emese Taylor

Sex & Relationship Therapist

Book an appointment 07943 621 149
emesetaylor@sextherapist.london

Intimate Toys: A Beginners Guide!

From the humble beginnings of the simple vibrator and the now comedic inflatable sex dolls, the adult toy industry has experienced a huge expansion in recent years as we have become more comfortable as a society with our own erotic pleasures. Sex toys can be a great way to explore and expand upon the bedroom activities that you and your partner involve yourself with and for many they can serve as a great way to reinvigorate a flagging sex life.

These days, there is a mid boggling array of various delightful and devious toys and devices available for every couple to pick up and explore together. And what’s even better, is that there are a wide variety of online retailers available for those not up to the challenge of browsing a shop in real life. Having said this, however, much of the taboo regarding sex toys is by now very much a thing of the past and there are several high street stores that specialise in just these kinds of things.

A very important thing to consider through all of this is to be sure to buy high quality items. As tempting as it may be to grab yourself a bargain, do keep in mind that due to the intimate nature of the toys you will want to be sure that you have safe and well tested articles in your hands. And other places, that we shall leave to your imagination!

So, with all this said, where should you begin when it comes to sex toys?

Depending on the relationship you have with your partner, you could either present a toy as a surprise during an intimate moment or discuss in advance the possibility and spend sometime choosing items together.

The humble vibrator is a good place to start. These battery powered implements are used to provide stimulation primarily to the clitoris but can also be applied to other parts of both the male and female genitalia to provide a sensation that some find overwhelmingly pleasurable. Once you are both feeling comfortable with a basic toy such as this, take the plunge into the world of other exciting alternatives available to you. There are so many options out there that we have little chance of scratching the surface with, so take the time to explore and decide what seems right for you and your partner.

When using sex toys, lubricant can be vital. Not only can this add another level of sensation to events but also can ease any vaginal dryness. Oil based lubricants are also great for nourishing the skin and should be used in place of silicone based alternatives.

It is also very important to keep your toys clean and hygienic. Be sure that they are washed after use and consider using a specific box or container to keep them all safe, tidy and clean. For many, such a box itself can become a source of wonder, filled with all sorts of toys and treasures that either you or your partner can add to as an unexpected treat. Most toys will come with instructions on how to look after them and may even recommend what cleaning products to use, but soap and water with a flannel to wipe down is usually sufficient.

One of the most important things to take away from this article is that if you are playing with sex toys as a couple it is important that both parties are comfortable and happy to be experimenting. With that in mind, if you are both up to exploring a new world of sensual pleasures then sex toys are a great way to open up further options for physical intimacy for you and your partner.

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