“Hysteria” and the Strange History of Vibrators

“I really like the ones where the internal and external parts can be controlled separately,” sex writer and sex toy reviewer Amy Norton says. This sleek U-shaped vibrator is a game-changer for shared pleasure, according to our panel. The longer arm can be inserted into the vagina and used to stimulate both the G-spot and penis, while the outer arm vibrates against the clitoris. It has a motor at each end and nine increasingly powerful settings – from a gentle murmur to deep rumbling vibrations – for heightened pleasure during intercourse. The lightweight design and travel pouch make it a worthy companion for holidays , and it can be used in the bath or shower. The battery life (one hour) isn’t the longest, but this wouldn’t put our panel off using it time and time again.

Fast-forward to the 1950s, when one company began marketing the Vibra Finger “Gum Massager” (uh-huh). Featuring a “full-size” finger attached to an electric base, the massager was dentist approved. The money-back guarantee is nice, but we have a feeling no one ever took advantage of it.

Sam, the founder of a spicy audio membership club called Best Kept Secret, recommends the TENGA GEO Coral for men (or folks with penises) who want to be discreet and still have a good time. It has an oversized viberator, flat tip that sits snugly against your G-spot, and unlike other internal vibrators, this one isn’t so big that you’ll have a hard time getting it in or out. If using lube, I do suggest a water-based lubricant to ensure everything slips in smoothly.

Those who prefer direct pressure should opt for a pinpoint or bullet vibrator, while others may like more diffused vibrations that spread across the vulva, which can be achieved by most wand vibes, grinding toys, and palm vibes. If receiving oral sex is your favorite way to get off, consider a clit suction toy or oral sex stimulator. Our best suction toy and our highest scoring vibrator overall, the Next uses innovative 3D pleasure air technology to produce slow, pulsating sensations our testers loved.

We spoke to sex experts and sex educators to answer the biggest questions about these sex toys and break down the very best panty vibes for your (uniquely private) pleasure. For far too long, sex toys missed the mark, especially when it came to people with vulvas. Studies have repeatedly shown that people with vulvas need clitoral stimulation to orgasm, but it wasn’t until 2014 that the first clitoral suction toy hit the market. These days many suction toys (also called clit suckers) have been designed by the people using them.

“Find a setting you think is fun and use it on different parts of your body to see how it feels. Remember, there’s no ‘right’ way to pleasure yourself.” Solo sex not only helps you figure out what gives you pleasure but helps you feel more confident during partnered sex, which can lead to more fulfilling and healthy relationships. Dr. Lincoln adds that there’s no risk of sexually transmitted infections or pregnancy with masturbation. The Laya III’s C-shape allows it to cup your entire vulva hands-free (so you can focus on using those elsewhere). Pressure or friction in that area can be intensely satisfying,” says Shannon.