Sex Toys: Myths, Facts, and a Must-Try. Once upon a time in 1734, the first vibrator was invented in France. It was powered by a hand crank and very expensive, mostly used by physicians and the very wealthy. Today, according to Adam & Eve, sex toys are a $15 billion a year industry, and 63 percent of people reporting that they have used a sex toy in their lives. While sex toys are commonplace and have permeated pop culture (think Charlotte buying a Rabbit in Sex and the City), there are still lots of misconceptions about sex toys out there–and plenty of facts that need to be uncovered, so we’re breaking down the deets, debunking the myths, and sharing our favorite toy of the moment.
Fact: Sex Toys are Illegal in Alabama
You read that right. Technically, in the state of Alabama, there’s the Anti-Obscenity Enforcement Act, which makes distribution of any device “designed or marketed as useful primarily for the stimulation of human genital organs” punishable by a fine up to $10,000, or one year in prison. Not surprisingly, this law has caused a lot of controversy and litigation. In fact, in 2007, Alabama politician Loretta Nall, a former candidate for governor, launched a "toy drive" to send sex toys to Alabama Attorney General Troy King, who defended the law.
Fact: Sex Toys Can Provide Health Benefits
Finally, some good news for the day! Sex toys can actually improve your health. According to Patient, “Sex toys can be helpful in the treatment of menopausal symptoms such as vaginal atrophy; vulval/vaginal pain and tightness (due to vaginismus, vulvodynia, lichen sclerosus, gynae cancer treatments and surgical interventions; neurological conditions such as multiple sclerosis; lack of arousal, and low libido)." Menopausal women have even reported an improvement in sleep and overnight sweating with sex toy use. Pair that with the benefits of a CBD lubricant, ie. pain relief, relaxation, and increased blood flow, and you’re on your way to a better you.
Myth: If you need a vibrator to reach your peak, there’s something wrong with you
Uh… nope. Would you criticize someone using power tools to get a building job done over a hammer and screwdriver? I don’t think so. Vibrators make it easier for a woman to become aroused and reach orgasm–that’s totally normal. According to WebMD, research shows that for nearly 75 percent of women, penetrative sex alone doesn't lead to an orgasm. And for both men and women, a vibrator can help reach climax more quickly. It’s all about efficiency!
Myth: Vibrators are embarrassing to buy
Once an item only sold by specialty shops, vibrators and other sex toys used to be much more difficult to browse and purchase. Now, with the vast options of the Internet, there are tons of different options to explore depending on what you like: for personal use, couples use, G-spot stimulation, a ring, a bullet, one that’s super quiet, one for prostate stimulation… it’s endless. Good Housekeeping put together a complete guide to selecting the best one for your needs if you need a starting place, and we have our favorite listed below if you keep reading.
Our Favorite Vibrator
Sure, we’re a little biased because we sought out the perfect clit stimulator, and found it for you! The Vibe is a vibrator unlike anything else we could find on the market. Trust us, we did LOTS of pleasure-inducing research. The stand out feature? It doubles as a chic necklace. That means it’s equally stylish as it is discreet. And Vibe is powerful, too, with 8 speeds and a precise rounded tip for lots of different ways to reach your peak. One of our favorite benefits is it’s compatible with oil-based lubes, unlike many of the silicone options out there.
What toy makes you swoon? Stay connected to us on social media for more on sex toys, sexual health and wellness, and of course, the best CBD-infused lubricants for maximum sexual pleasure.
ABOUT UPSTATE MARY
At Upstate Mary, we're all about the power of plants. Formulated with full-spectrum CBD + MCT coconut oil and a blend of organic botanicals, our products offer soothing and stimulating effects. Like your gut, your vagina has its own microbiome and it can be very sensitive. We use organic botanical ingredients, so no disruptors here!
Our Farm to Bedroom™ collection isn’t just for special occasions, one-night stands or mind-blowing orgasms; although we’re here for all of that! We're committed to being the new go-to for our perimenopausal and menopausal friends too. Our collection of CBD lubes and suppositories can help address a range of needs, from relieving pelvic floor pain to enhancing blood flow + daily lubrication to offering postpartum care. We're here to support every body.