Vibe on

Masturbation myths about vibrators

By Jessica Berget, Editor-in-Chief

Contrary to popular belief, diamonds are not a girl’s best friend—the BFF spot is held by vibrators.

Vibrators are probably the most popular sex toy on the market. In a 2017 study in The Canadian Journal of Human Sexuality about sex toys, it was found that vibrators were the most commonly used toy—with nearly 55 percent of their participants saying they have used a vibrator. But many have speculated on the dangers and harm of these popular sex toys and the dependence that people can form.

A popular myth circulating around is that overuse of one’s vibrator can cause one’s clitoris to become numb or lose sensitivity leading to “Dead Vagina Syndrome,” a terrifying yet ridiculous name. This is a major concern for many women who own and use vibrators for their personal sexual pleasure. But all you chronic masturbators don’t have to worry—your clitoris will be fine. An article from Psychology Today illustrates how vibrators are not addictive. “Do Carpenters become addicted to power tools? No, power tools just get the job done faster.”

Furthermore, in a Vice article, sex therapist Sarah Berry explains that using your vibrator often may lead to a loss of sensitivity temporarily, but you can just wait for your body to reset. “You can’t harm your vagina by using a vibrator, but you can desensitize it, particularly if you’re having a bit of a session […] If your clitoris is feeling numb you might want to wait and have a cup of tea and then start again.” So, there it is, just take a vibrator break for a while, and then resume when you’re feeling ready again.

Although you can’t become addicted to your vibrator, or lose sensitivity in your clitoris, there is a possibility of becoming too reliant on it for orgasming. If the first thing you do is grab your vibrator when you’re in the mood or when you’re with a partner, that may not be a good sign. It’s also important to note to make sure you’re not always using your vibrator immediately on the highest setting. Start with the lowest setting—or even just using your hands is a great way to get yourself warmed up. If you’re with a sexual partner, maybe keep it in the drawer for awhile before immediately breaking it out.

Berry echoes this advice in the same Vice article. “Just slow down a little bit and take time to touch around your vagina. There are lots of different parts of the vagina that feel happy to the touch […] You may find the orgasm, and the journey to it a more relaxing enjoyable experience.”

Keep calm and vibe on, but it’s also good to experiment without your sex toys occasionally. It’s good to be aware of what brings you pleasure without the use of an electronic device that can make your orgasm instantly.