What is shibari?

— Here’s everything to know about Japanese rope bondage, according to experts

Right this way for all the kinky details

DISCLAIMER: Always get consent when trying something new. If you are unsure about any of the terms mentioned in this article please refer to our expert guide to BDSM. The views expressed in this article are those of experts and not of Cosmopolitan. If you are concerned about your safety or need advice on sex and sexuality, speak with a sexual health professional or counsellor or contact Brook for anonymous support.

Whether you’re kink-curious or consider yourself a bona fide kinxpert (that’s ‘kink expert’, in case that wasn’t clear), one thing about sex on the kinky side is that there is always more to learn. Hence why we’re on a never-ending journey to provide you with the kind of top-notch kink-ed your high school health class definitely didn’t. Which brings us to today’s lesson. Hi, let’s talk about a form of BDSM that is definitely not for the under-educated: shibari.

Shibari, or kinbaku, is the art of Japanese rope tying. It falls under the ‘B’ in BDSM — bondage. Kinbaku actually means ‘tight binding’ and shibari means ‘tying’.

“Shibari, or Japanese rope bondage, is a style of kink or BDSM play that comes from Japan and is firmly rooted in the adult entertainment and image-making industry of the early 20th century,” says sex educator Midori, author of Seductive Art of Japanese Bondage and founder of Rope Dojo and ForteFemme Women’s Intensive. “It originated as an underground form of culturally-specific erotic fantasy play that centres on the erotic nostalgia of bygone eras.”

It’s a true art form that takes great skill and practice — we’re talking tying people into human chandeliers and tying countless, intricate knots for hours on end. Mastering shibari can take years and years of dedication. This advanced kink practice isn’t for everyone, but for the (deeply patient) shibari lover, it is everything.

Sex expert Julieta Chiara, a certified kinbaku instructor, says shibari’s appeal is layered and can be almost spiritual: “It’s the erotic nature, blend of pleasure and pain or restraint, and the immense connection and trust that is built between the rigger (the one tying) and the rope bottom (the one getting tied).”

When practiced safely and effectively, shibari can be a fantastic way to explore a whole new kind of erotic experience. Keep reading to find out all about shibari’s exquisite history, how to learn more about the practice, and even some sexy positions that beginners can try (plus a cute tip on how to work shibari into a date night out).

What is shibari?

Also known as Japanese rope bondage or ‘kinbaku’, shibari is a contemporary form of rope bondage that originated in Japan, says Midori.

Simply put, shibari is the act of tying a person up for aesthetic purposes — maybe in a pretty or intricate pattern, typically by using some form of rope. And while shibari is most often used as a means for sexual pleasure, it’s historically been used as a form of meditation, relaxation, and a trust-building practice between two partners, says sexpert Gabi Levi.

You may remember that this sex practice had a little cameo on Netflix’s series Too Hot to Handle when the contestants tied each other up, but trust, it goes so much deeper than what the show depicted.

How is it different from regular bondage?

Bondage, in general, can use any kind of restriction — handcuffs, tape, ties, scarves, etc. — but shibari refers exclusively to the practice of using rope, or rope-like material, to bind yourself or a partner, says sex educator Rev. Rucifer. “Shibari is often not just about the sensation of restriction but also about the intimate connection between the rigger and receiver.”

And while rope bondage is used commonly in BDSM practices anyway, “shibari stands out for its striking visual aesthetic and emphasis on the emotional and psychological connection between the participants”, says rope artist and instructor Jonathan Ryan of Seattle Shibari.

“Shibari stands out for its striking visual aesthetic and emphasis on connection”

The history of shibari

The origins of shibari are steeped in myth and legend. Chiara says its history is lengthy and often unclear. “The wives’ tail is that it stemmed from the Edo period, being used as a form of imprisonment and restraint,” she explains. “There are also martial arts like Hojōjutsu, which also uses ropes in a restrictive way that mirrors much of kinbaku’s core elements. Along that road, with its many iterations, we eroticised it — as humans usually do with any part of human behaviour and history.”

The modern concept of shibari as we know it today — the art form of tying and being tied for pleasure — seems to have emerged from a kind of nostalgia that is culturally specific to Japan. It is a callback to the storybook-like beauty and mystery of ancient Japan. Much of modern kinbaku is based in folklore and fantasy.

garters on sexy thighs

“In the same way that kinky people of European heritage have incorporated legends and tools of medieval European incarceration, such as Saint Andrew’s Cross and shackles, into their sexual shadow play, so have Japanese folks found carnal inspiration from historical fables of their captured maidens and incarcerated heroes,” Midori adds. While in Europe, non-consensual incarceration often used metal and leather, in Japan it was usually rope. “Every culture finds its muse of sexual transgression in dark moments of its history,” she says.

Midori also stresses that sex work and adult entertainment is an important part of shibari’s history, which, she notes, can sometimes get overlooked in the culturally appropriative version of shibari that has become common in the western world today. “The thing I caution against is when imagined history paints shibari as something sacred, honorable, and secret and ignores its gloriously, deliciously messy history.”

For more on this gloriously messy history, check out Midori’s essay, “The History & Myths of Japanese Bondage: Censorship, Sex Work, and Othering in the World of Shibari”.

Understanding the different roles in shibari

There are two main roles in shibari: the rigger and the model.

The Japanese word for the rigger is ‘nawashi’, or ‘rope artist’. The model is often referred to as the ‘bunny’, ‘rope bunny’, or ‘rope bottom’. These roles often function in the same way as a Dominant and submissive in BDSM. The rigger is the Dom and the bunny is the sub.

But not always. Chiara says the ways the rigger and bunny relate to one another varies depending on what each person wants out of the scene. “In my tying, I like to make our session a collaboration, as I’m not dominant in BDSM spaces,” she explains. “I tie designs and prints on a model’s body and take them through a sensory experience. This can include pain, pleasure, sensuality, or somatic release.”

The bunny may not be the one tying the knots, but it’s still a big job. “Shibari pushes you to surrender,” Chiara explains. “Building trust, connection, and safety is a huge part from both sides, not just the rigger.” Not to mention, you have to stay perfectly still while your rigger ties you into intricate positions.

“Communication is vital for the model to express their comfort, physical limitations, and concerns”

Some folks practice in a more versatile way, shifting the roles in ways that work for them. “There are instances where people like me explore self-tying (tying oneself, also known as self-suspension) or engage in more fluid roles where both partners share tying and being tied responsibilities interchangeably,” Chiara says.

In order to have a healthy, pleasurable, and safe kinbaku experience, everyone needs to thoroughly communicate and negotiate. “Communication is vital for the model to express their comfort levels, physical limitations, and any concerns or preferences they might have regarding the tying process.”

Crucially, Chiara says it’s highly advised that you are fully trained as a rigger before practicing shibari — this stuff is actually dangerous. This isn’t your old ‘throw on some handcuffs and mess around’ kind of kink. It’s truly a cultivated skillset.

What are some misconceptions about shibari?

The biggest misconception about shibari is that people tend to paint it as a purely spiritual art form, basically ignoring the horny side that has roots in adult entertainment. “The myth that it’s precious and sacred and honorable — that’s actually sex negativity dressed in a polite bow,” says Midori. “It can be spiritual, it can be insightful, it can be romantically bonding, it can be straight up hot sex, or no sex,” she says.

When it comes to practice, Midori notes that it’s important to remember that all genders can be tied up, flagging the idea that only women are restrained as “utter nonsense”.

Additionally, while beginners should ease into it, Midori adds that shibari doesn’t always have to be this slow-paced experience. “It can be fast, messy, and sexy,” she adds.

How to try shibari as a beginner

Like engaging in any new sexual experience, communicating your boundaries and hard limits prior to beginning is a must. “Because rope bondage involves restraint and power dynamics, the person being tied may not express boundaries clearly,” says Ryan. “For that reason, be sure to have a clear discussion beforehand about what you both want out of the experience, what is on and off the table, and how you’ll communicate if there is an issue.”

It’s worth developing a safe word (like ‘pineapple’ or ‘red’) that could relay to your partner the scene is going too far or there’s a boundary being crossed. Here are some questions you should ask and answer with your partner beforehand:

What do you look and sound like when things feel good to you?
How will I know if you’re having fun?
How will I know when I need to change course?
What kind of mood or feelings do we want to have while we play (rough, tender, naughty, cared for, etc.)?

Once you have boundaries established, you should get familiar with the basics. Here are some things you’ll need to know in order to get started:

Learn how to tie a ‘single-column tie’ (like a Somerville Bowline) because that’s the foundation of the practice, suggests Ryan. Here’s a video tutorial.
Start with a floor tie rather than going straight into suspension, says Rucifer. This ensures that you practice the proper methods before jumping into in-air suspension.
Have safety shears on hand… for obvious reasons.
Make sure you have a safe and comfortable space to play. It should be familiar to both parties.
The preferred material of rope is jute because it’s a strong natural fiber, but hemp and cotton will work too.

Lastly, educate yourself with videos, resources, books, and anything else you can find on the subject to ensure healthy and safe practices. This rope bottom guide is great if you want to be the person tied up. This website offers general education about shibari from trained educators. And this how-to video can get you started properly if you’re new to this world.

Basic shibari positions

You want to start simple and, of course, have fun. “Learning a ‘two column’ tie (like wrist to wrist), a ‘single column’ tie (such as for ankles or the hip), or a simple chest harness can get you far by combining them in different ways and using them to help create the moods you want,” Midori says.

Important PSA for beginners: you do not have to integrate suspension into your shibari practice. In fact, that’s highly discouraged for beginners. Midori strongly encourages anyone new to shibari to stay on the ground.

“The reality is that suspension is difficult. It’s really hard on the body, it’s very technical, and requires hands-on training (not just YouTube!!). Accidents and injuries (including cumulative long-term effects) happen, and you need special equipment,” Midori says. “Additionally, it requires the person tying to pay so much attention to the technicality that the passion and mutual attention can take a back seat.”

If you’re just starting out, Midori suggests simply placing your forearms behind the back, to be tied at the wrists. “A basic and common one is the forearms stacked behind the back and the wrists tied together,” Midori says. “Also fun are each thigh tied to the same ankle on both legs (again with the wrists tied behind the back).”

“Important PSA for beginners: you do not have to integrate suspension into your shibari practice”

Of course, if you’re more experienced or simply curious as to what more advanced positions look like, there’s more you can do.

Shibari photographer Kent Wolfburn, aka Sensual Shibari, shares that one of his favourite positions to shoot is the futomomo, or frog tie. “In this tie, a bottom’s legs are locked in a fully bent position, calves pressed to thighs,” he explains. “It’s another classic tie for shibari photography and one that I use very often. It’s also a great tie for D/s play. It leaves a person quite exposed, and the rope provides convenient handholds for a top to control their bottom’s legs.”

As incorrect ties can lead to injury or just be uncomfortable, it’s best to start low and go slow. You can always take your favorite sex position and integrate light rope play into that. Stop at once and grab the safety shears if there’s any change in skin color, tingling, temperature changes, or any discomfort.

“You can also have a chest or body harness and wear it under your clothes for date night and enjoy some stealthy sexy shibari fun,” Midori says.

Shibari vs. bondage: which should I try?

All BDSM practices require high levels of trust and communication, but for shibari, there’s sometimes a more intimate and emotionally binding (pun intended) component to it. “The sensation of being tied up is not the sensation of being ‘trapped’ but rather lends itself to the idea of completely letting go of the physical bounds and allowing for that deep, emotional catharsis to take place,” says Levi.

“The play between the power dynamics and the release of control from the bottom to the top creates an intimate dance of trust and connection between partners. This often creates deep emotional connection, sometimes experienced as crying, euphoria, or simply a feeling of a deeper connection,” says Rucifer.

Tips, tricks, and benefits of trying shibari

Blindfolds will make everything significantly more fun. “These take the pressure off the new adventurer and enhance the sensation for the person bottoming,” says Midori.
Keep things simple and sexy. No need to overcomplicate the ties.
Relish in the untying part too — don’t just focus on the aesthetics of tying your partner. “Take your time to savour that — it’s often when the skin and body is really awake to sensuality,” says Midori.

How to learn more about shibari

If you want to learn more about shibari, Midori stresses that the best, most responsible way to do so is to take hands-on practice classes from experts who know what they’re doing. There are books available, such as Midori’s Seductive Art of Japanese Bondage and Lee Harrington’s Shibari You Can Use.

Midori also recommends checking out free video tutorials on TwistedMonk.com, which teach “easy, practical, and fun skills”.

One thing to avoid? Attempting to learn purely from photography, says Midori. Don’t believe everything you see in pictures or try to replicate them! Models often have assistants for photoshoots, she cautions, adding that many images of shibari you’re likely to find online may be created and enhanced by digital editing.

It’s also worth doing some research into your local kink and sex-positive scene. Chances are there are shibari classes or meet-ups you can attend. And, if any of this sounds intimidating, know that there are tons of cute handcuffs and other bondage toys for beginners that allow for similar experiences with safety and ease in mind.

Complete Article ↪HERE↩!

September 10, 2024May 10, 2026

How Queer, Disabled People Are Finding Pleasure and Community Through Kink

— For decades, kinky disabled people have been creating intentional, accessible spaces where their own sensuality, agency, and erotic connection is at the center.

By Sara Youngblood Gregory

Artemis and Greta met in 2021 at a Brooklyn rope jam, a type of casual, low-pressure community event where people gather to hang out and practice rope play. The meeting, Artemis jokingly tells Them, was a business partnership at first sight.

Not long after she met Greta, Artemis began working at a woman-owned boutique sex shop — something she initially looked forward to as a kinky and disabled trans person. But Artemis quickly realized the shop wasn’t as inclusive of her community as she’d hoped.

Not only do many sex shops lack basic sexual health and gender-affirming products for trans folks, Artemis says the physical layout of these spaces are often exclusionary for disabled people. “You go in [these stores] and you’re already knocking everything over. We need spaces where fat people can move, people with limited mobility can move around and sit, [where there are] chairs and couches for people for when you’re overstimulated,” Artemis, 30, says.

Not long after working at the boutique, Artemis pitched Greta on the idea of a sex shop that catered to their community: people who are queer, trans, disabled, and decidedly kinky. Greta, a 29-year-old with autism, was immediately sold on the idea. For them, access to kink had long been central to their sex life and sense of identity.

“I’ve never had the option to come out as disabled, it’s been since day one,” says Greta. “Kink gives me a space where my support needs are the crux of what happens, and my ability to be nonverbal is both a tool and a strength.”

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Less than a year later in January 2024, the pair formally launched the Toolbox Collective in an inconspicuous brick building in New York City’s West Village. To their knowledge, the Toolbox is the first and only trans-owned, queer-centered sex shop in New York City.

The launch was so busy there was a waiting list at the door. (I should know; I was on it!) Everyone was masked, and the tables were brimming with pleasure products, many designed specifically for transfemme pleasure and with accessibility in mind. There were racks of kink gear and gender-affirming apparel, along with an abundance of free resources: educational zines, harm reduction treatments like Narcan, drug testing kits, and condoms. Though the initial launch was in a basement, requiring a narrow journey down a flight of stairs, the Toolbox Collective has since hosted events and workshops in many different venues and are working toward a permanent brick-and-mortar shop that’s fully accessible.

“The ultimate goal of the Toolbox Collective is building a space where people can go and have the tools and resources to access a more autonomous and embodied relationship to their pleasure,” says Greta.

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For decades, kinky disabled people have been creating intentional, accessible spaces where their own sensuality, agency, and erotic connection is at the center. But as with the Toolbox Collective, much of this work comes from a place of necessity and exclusion. Although one in four adults in the U.S. is living with a disability, disabled adults are often infantilized, desexualized, or reduced to harmful tropes — and that’s to say nothing of the legal disparities that impact disabled folks, including marriage equality. Even in queer and trans spaces, it’s common for disabled people to be treated as an afterthought.

Kink, both as a practice and a community, can offer a space where queer and trans disabled people get to experience their own bodies on their own terms. From BDSM and beyond, kink can happen anywhere desire happens and be adapted across a full spectrum of bodies and abilities. It ranges from sensation play and bondage to power exchanges and roleplay.

“Kink gives me a space where my support needs are the crux of what happens, and my ability to be nonverbal is both a tool and a strength.”

As Anna Randall, a clinical sexologist and executive director of The Alternative Sexualities Health Research Alliance (TASHRA) points out, research has even proven that kink can offer particular benefits for disabled folks. As both a practice and community, kink can encourage confidence, personal healing, body acceptance, community building, and in some cases, even pain or symptom management, Randall tells Them

“BDSM is a playground of somatic experiences,” Randall says. Kink often encourages embodiment — or an intentional connection between the mind, body and senses — which can be especially valuable for people with disabilities and those with certain sensory needs and cravings, Randall adds.

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For Sara Elise, a 35-year-old autistic leatherdyke, embodiment is one of the main benefits of her kink practice. “[BDSM play] allows me to be fully body-present, open, and flowing, the best version of myself,” she says. Elise discovered kink over a decade ago and soon began exploring bottoming and submission, as well as other power dynamics and ritualized play.

“Before developing a relationship with kink and receiving my diagnosis, I knew that I felt too much but I didn’t know why and I didn’t know how to deal with it,” Elise says. To cope with her symptoms, she regularly turned to self-harm and self-medicating with drugs and alcohol.

“When I discovered kink, I discovered an outlet for self-regulation and play, a boundaried, clear, communicative, and constructive outlet for processing the intensity of energy and feelings I experience,” Elise says.

Like Elise, 23-year-old Juno uses kink to connect with their body — and to reclaim their power after negative healthcare experiences. During their sophomore year of college, Juno was often in and out of the hospital. These visits, alongside a childhood fear of needles, left them with a strong aversion to medical settings.

But while researching body modifications for their thesis, Juno decided to explore sharps play, which involves using sharp objects like needles on the body. Pretty soon, they were hooked. “I developed this really interesting relationship with [needles] where I decided, this is scary, but I have control over it,” they say. “It’s exposure therapy almost and it makes it so much easier to just look at a needle and be like, that’s nothing I can handle that.” Juno gets blood work done every few months; the appointments have transformed from uncomfortable to mundane.

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But kink isn’t just about finding joy and agency in a sometimes-tenuous body; it’s also a way to build community. Though most queer people understand the importance of chosen family, these networks of care can be especially vital for disabled people who are more likely to lack adequate healthcare, housing, employment and other basic resources than their non-disabled counterparts. Though they often go underappreciated, these communities are deeply tied to LGBTQ+ history and survival. During the AIDS crisis, for example, leather families and lesbian activists helped popularize what was called the “San Francisco model of care,” a then-radical approach that prioritized holistic care for people living with HIV and AIDs — including home-delivered meals and other services — rather than solely focusing on medical treatment.

Today, the internet is transforming how kinky disabled people can find one another. In her research with TASHRA, Anna Randall says approximately 80% of kinksters go online to find community — and that includes Pup Quincy, a 26-year-old living with Multiple Sclerosis and chronic pain.

After exploring the New York city play party scene, Pup Quincy decided to fully embrace kink online, especially as various parties began lifting their COVID-19 guidelines. Online, they’ve attended workshops and monthly meet-ups and regularly connect on Discord.

“When it comes to the kink disability community, I would not have been able to connect with as many people or really as regularly or intentionally if it had not been for the spaces that I found online,” Pup Quincy says. “We’re [in these spaces] because we can’t engage with sex in the ways we like to or want to on a regular basis and finding that community has been very, very fulfilling and rewarding.”
Image may contain Person Sitting Accessories Jewelry Necklace Glasses Face Head Photography Portrait and Bed

These disability-centered spaces and relationships have helped Pup Quincy enter their self-love era, where they connect with and care for their body through self-domming (depending on the person, self-domming can be focused erotic acts like masturbation or non-sexual activities like self-care). “The more I talk to other disabled people, I’m like ‘you guys are fucking smart,” they say. “[I] walk away feeling like, oh wow, there’s really so many possibilities to feel good in a world and a body that might feel really fucking bad. The perseverance and resilience to do that all the time is truly one of the most beautiful things in the world to me.”

There’s also a demand for IRL spaces where disabled pleasure is baked into the culture of the play, not sprinkled on top as an afterthought.

“The rope scene is not untouched by white supremacy, and in turn, ableism, fatphobia, and transphobia,” says Salem, a 26-year-old rope switch. When some friends introduced them to their local rope scene, Salem was immediately drawn to the social atmosphere of rope jams and the way relationships between rope facilitates intimate, non-normative dynamics. But a lot of rope education excludes modifications for bigger, disabled, or hypermobile people, and according to Salem, many riggers just aren’t that interested in learning these modifications.

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“Though shibari is Japanese, the idealized body in rope, at least in the U.S., is a thin, able-bodied cis white woman,” they say. “I would say the scene largely pedestalizes ties that are intense and risky, while ties that are more comfortable, lower risk, and more accessible are seen as ‘boring,’ which unfortunately leaves a lot of people on the margins.” In response, Salem co-founded a rope jam that centers trans and marginalized kinksters — one of the few monthly rope spaces that still practices COVID precautions.

Now, Salem’s rope community is largely made up of other trans people of color, sex workers, and disabled folks. Salem reports that people often find their rope jams to be one of the only spaces they feel comfortable tying. Like kink itself, community spaces are co-created by all those involved, meaning they can be shaped and reshaped to fit the needs of all parties.

“Rope is like a language, and you give yourself a loose script. It feels like a safe(r) container where genuine play and vulnerability become accessible,” Salem says. “Through rope, I’ve found a lovely community of weirdos who see me for who I really am, who take care of each other, and who are willing to have hard conversations about important things.”

Complete Article ↪HERE↩!

August 28, 2024May 13, 2026

Can Orgasms Make You Smarter?

— Here’s What Experts Say

Various sections of the brain are activated during the Big O, including the limbic system.

By Kimberly Delarosa

No matter your relationship status or sexual preference, we all want to experience orgasm during sex. And why not? Studies show one of the benefits of orgasm is shutting down the thinking and logical part of our brain; a vacation for the overthinker. Instead, we drift off into an ecstasy of pleasure, a feeling that has inspired poetry, art, and songs for centuries.

While we always remember the feeling, there is a relationship between orgasms, the human brain, and overall health from gynecological and neurological perspectives. And since orgasms have a major effect on the brain, we reached out to experts to ask a simple question: Can orgasms make you smarter?

It’s an especially important question given the persisting orgasm gap. A recent study published by the journal Sexual Medicine found that 82% of men reported orgasm during their most recent casual sexual encounter—compared with only 32% of women. Since the 1970s (the age of female sexual empowerment), resources and information revolving around women’s sexual health has increased. Yet while women may have reached the era of sexual liberation in America, the gap in orgasm satisfaction is still significant. But why?

When it comes to sex for heterosexual couples, studies show that women have a lower orgasm rate due to different definitions of pleasure and satisfaction. “One of the biggest reasons women may struggle to orgasm is a lack of clitoral stimulation,” says Aliyah Moore, a certified sex therapist with a PhD in gender and sexuality studies. The majority of women require direct or indirect clitoral stimulation to achieve orgasm, as the clitoris includes a large number of nerve endings that play an important part in sexual pleasure. Men prioritize penile-vaginal intercourse over more clitorally focused sexual activities. This seems to happen mainly in heterosexual relationships, as lesbian and bisexual women reported higher orgasm rates.

Another reason for the orgasm gap is the pressure of performance. “When women feel pressured—either by themselves or by their partner—to attain orgasm, it can cause tension, which makes it even more difficult. The emphasis switches from enjoying the sexual experience to satisfying an expectation, sometimes disrupting the natural rise to orgasm,” says Moore. Women also struggle to orgasm more with age due to hormonal changes, history of abuse, or chronic illnesses.

Low orgasm rates show there’s still more work to do in female sexual empowerment, especially since the deficit is depriving women of numerous health benefits. Ahead, neuroscientists and sex therapists break down how orgasms affect the brain, the physical benefits, and how to increase your orgasm rate overall.

Can orgasms make you smarter?

While there is not yet any concrete evidence that orgasms can boost intelligence, there is something to be said about what happens to the brain when a person reaches orgasm. According to research by Barry Komisaruk, PhD, a psychologist, neuroscientist, and professor at New Jersey’s Rutgers University, “more than 30 major brain systems are activated” during orgasm. Dr. Komisaruk specializes in identifying the brain regions that respond to genital stimulation to generate orgasm in women and men.

In a 2010 research study, Dr. Komisaruk found when a person reaches orgasm, various sections of the brain are activated, including the limbic system (responsible for memory) and the prefrontal cortex (responsible for problem-solving).

The brain produces waves of neurochemicals that activate brain regions during orgasm including the hypothalamic paraventricular nucleus, amygdala, hippocampus, and vagus nerve, among other places. These chemicals are released toward the spinal cord and increase brain activity. So while an orgasm won’t suddenly turn you into a genius, the neurochemicals released during this pleasurable experience can temporarily boost cognitive performance in certain areas.

What are the other benefits of orgasm?

Achieving orgasm regularly provides numerous physical benefits. While sexual activity has been known to release endorphins and oxytocin (resulting in feeling relaxed), orgasms through sex can help relieve menstrual pain, reduce stress, improve bladder control, and promote better sleep. In Dr. Komisaruk’s book The Science of Orgasms, women who engaged in sex during menstruation were less likely to develop endometriosis. It also helps regulate hormones, positively impacting mood and overall health. But that’s not all!

“Sex may also be associated with beauty, as it can increase levels of DHEA, a hormone which is thought to ward off depression and promote shiny hair, glowing skin, and bright eyes,” says Jessica O’Riley, PhD, a sexologist and relationship expert. “This explains the term sex glow.”

Regular sexual activity, whether with a partner or solitary, is associated with higher levels of estrogen, which is key for supporting skin health by increasing collagen and hyaluronic acid naturally. Sex is also a form of exercise and can help boost blood flow throughout the body, which helps reduce stress and has been linked with decreased risk of the common cold or flu and protection against viruses, including influenza.

How can you increase your orgasm rate for better health?

The answer is simple: solo play. Masturbation has been linked to an increase in positive body image and self-confidence when it comes to sex. Sofie Roos, licensed sexologist and couples therapist, suggests this is the first step to reaching sexual satisfaction and a consistent orgasm rate. “Discover yourself and understand your own body and how you can orgasm. Find what physical stimulation you need, such as what sex positions you like best, but also what angles, pressure, and pace you enjoy the most.”

If you’re not in a relationship and would prefer to fly solo, it doesn’t hurt to invest in a good vibrator. Companies like Kama, Omgyesa, and Quinn have taken the lead on sexual wellness, allowing women to experience sex in new and exciting ways.

If you’re in a relationship and want to increase your orgasm rate with your partner, the key is to have a real conversation about sex—not just dirty talk. “All couples have different ways of communicating around sex, and a great way to do it if you find it difficult is in places where you’re most comfortable, like a car ride or a walk,” says Roos.

This conversation can (and should) feel safe and open. “It helps to have a conversation starter to ease into the topic, like an icebreaker,” says Roos. “For example, you can say you saw an advertisement for this new couples’ sex toy that promised to give amazing orgasms and you’re curious to try it, or that you read about a sex position with a higher chance for women to orgasm—like cowgirl or doggy style—and ask if they want to try.”

Complete Article ↪HERE↩!

January 3, 2011June 8, 2026

A New Year of Q&A — Podcast #252 — 01/03/11

[Look for the podcast play button below.]

Hey sex fans,

We’re BAACK, and it’s a brand new year! Did ya’ll have a brilliant holiday season? I sure hope so. And while I really enjoyed my brief winter break from podcasting, I’m eager to get back at it, don’t cha know. During these last two weeks of relative down time, I’ve been busy lining up an amazing array of outstanding guests who will make 2011 another banner year of interviews and conversations.

But today we break open the new year with some hot Q&A action. We haven’t had one of these kinds of shows since mid October. So that means my inbox is overflowing. I also have the pleasure of announcing The Dr Dick Review Crew’s Favorite Products of 2010 list.

Today we hear from:

Josiah is having a problem coming out, because his family is super religious.
Donna is my kind of perv. She’s into BDSM, but she’s also disabled.
The Powerchair Pimp is sick and tired of being a virgin.
Arthur wants to hook up with older dudes.
Stacy may have orgasmic related migraines.

The Dr Dick Review Crew’s Favorite Products of 2010

BE THERE OR BE SQUARE!

Look for all my podcasts on iTunes. You’ll fine me in the podcast section, obviously, or just search for Dr Dick Sex Advice. And don’t forget to subscribe. I wouldn’t want you to miss even one episode.

Today’s Podcast is bought to you by: DR DICK’S — HOW TO VIDEO LIBRARY.

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December 6, 2010June 8, 2026

Play With It Returns With More Audrey McManus — Podcast #250 — 12/06/10

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Hey sex fans,

We’re off for another exciting field trip to Babeland, Seattle to continue our chat with my friend Audrey McManus. She’s the Marketing, Education and Social Media Coordinator for that illustrious sex toy boutique, don’t cha know. This is Part 2 of our conversation, which inaugurates this brand-spankin-new podcast series called: Play With It.

This series is all about meeting industry insiders in the world of adult products — leading retailers, educators, manufacturers and reviewers — who are shaping the sex toy and pleasure product marketplace.

But wait, you didn’t miss Part 1 of this delightful conversation that appeared here last week at this time, did you? Well not to worry if ya did, because you can find it and all my podcasts in my Podcast Archive. All ya gotta do is use the search function in the header of my site, DDSA.com; type in Podcast #248 and Voilà! But don’t forget the #sign when you do your search.

Audrey and I discuss:

Vagina, vulva puppets;
Our list for healthy sex toy materials;
Toy cleaners and proper storage;
The blossoming market of body products;
Parabens and glycerin;
The teachable moment for the novelty customer;
Having sex on the brain;
Toys for seniors and disabled folks;
Babeland’s history
Staff training and enrichment classes.

Audrey invites you to check out all the fabulous products and interesting enrichment programs available at Babeland by visiting their site HERE!

BE THERE OR BE SQUARE!

Look for my podcasts on iTunes. You’ll find me in the podcast section, obviously, or just search for Dr Dick Sex Advice. And don’t forget to subscribe. I wouldn’t want you to miss even one episode.

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December 7, 2009May 29, 2026

Sex Advice With An Edge — Podcast #173 — 12/07/09

[Look for the podcast play button below.]

Hey sex fans,

It’s all Q&A today. We’re trying to clear the decks, as it were, before our well deserved holiday break, which is coming soon. The Erotic Mind series will resume in the New Year with a slew of new and interesting erotic artists and authors who will share their work with us and discuss their creative process.

Among today’s correspondents we hear from:

Phil asks Tony Buff for watersports info.
Alyssa’s BF says dirty and insulting things to her when they fuck.
Baux is having a burning sensation in his hole.
Gary wants pills to grow his dick bigger.
We also have a bunch of sex guilt questions; sex toy for men questions; and pheromones questions.

BE THERE OR BE SQUARE!

Look for all my podcasts on iTunes. You’ll find me in the podcast section, obviously. Just search for Dr Dick Sex Advice. And don’t forget to subscribe. I wouldn’t want you to miss even one episode.

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October 23, 2009July 9, 2026

3 Hits and A Miss

We’re back with a slew of new reviews. The intrepid Dr Dick’s Review Crew tackles a mixed bag of treats.

Today we will hear from Review Crew Members: Jada, Ken & Denise, Kevin and Jack & Karen. So without further ado…

We begin with a couple of new offerings from that gargantuan adult toy company, Doc Johnson. Here’s Jada to tell us about the first one.

Doc Johnson i-Vibe Rabbit Vibrator —— $36.30

Jada
The very first vibe I ever owned was a rabbit vibrator. I got off on it in record time, every time. But it was such a wild looking contraption I never really warmed up to it.

Aesthetically speaking, there’s something about the “rabbit” doohickey that juts out from the vibe’s shaft that I find disturbing. Don’t get me wrong; I understand the reason it is there. For most women, clitoral stimulation is what gets us off. I’m guessing that the insertable shaft, which is, strangely enough, usually penis shaped, is a way we tip our hat to the male member, even though most of our vibrator use is by ourselves. Frankly, I’ve never really understood that. I just don’t know too many women who need a penis reminder when we’re masturbating.

This suggests to me that these designs originate in the male mind. I wish there was a way I could substantiate this.

Ok, so from the aesthetics point of view the i-Vibe Rabbit Vibrator doesn’t do a thing for me. But I won’t detract points on that account either. I review the toy on its merits.

Speaking of aesthetics; what I do like about this toy is its packaging. It’s a plastic clamshell that slips inside a frosted oval plastic sheath. It’s a very nice presentation that I find very attractive.

The i-Vibe Rabbit uses 4-AA batteries and they are not included in the package. DISAPPOINTED! The battery compartment is easy to use and it seals shut making the toy waterproof. That’s a big plus in my book.

The keypad controls are pretty intuitive, although I think they should be in the reverse position. Like I said, most women use a vibrator on themselves. Looking down on the keypad, while using it on myself I see the controls upside down.

There are two main utilities — clitoral tickler (the rabbit) and shaft vibration (which doesn’t really vibrate, rather it rotates the beads in the shaft as well as the penis shaped head). There are different speeds and three functions. Frankly, I think all this is overkill.

It’s a bit noisier than I like, but with everything that’s going on with the i-Vibe Rabbit that’s not all that surprising. Despite all the functions and speeds, this thing never really delivers the kind of vibration I want and need. I was able to get off on it, but it wasn’t as effortless as I had hoped.

All the functions and speed variations run down the batteries very quickly, which seemed wasteful. I would have preferred the toy do one thing really well and have the batteries last longer. But, in the end, none of this mattered at all, because after installing the second set of batteries (brand new fresh ones, I might add) the unit simply stopped working. That’s right, within a week of getting the blasted thing; it was in the trash. DIASPPOINTED! I would have been furious had I paid good money for this.

Come on, Doc Johnson, you should be able to do much better than this!

Next, Kevin introduces us to the other Doc Johnson product.

Doc Johnson Harmony Divine Yin —— $49.99

Kevin
I’m happy to report that I had better luck with my toy then Jada did.

This here is the Harmony Divine Yin (black), which is exactly like the Yang (white), except for the color. It is a multi-speed (3), waterproof vibe with a very stylish shape. Despite having an interesting shape, there is nothing about it that suggests craftsmanship. You can tell immediately that it is mass-produced. There is also a disposable quality about it, which is too bad. Because with a little more though behind this, the Harmony Divine Yin could have been something quite remarkable.

It is made of hard plastic. I didn’t think I was going to take to the hardness, but I wound up liking it very much. So I have no quarrel with the material used.

The batteries (2-AAA) are easy to install. No batteries are included in the package, which sucks. And the battery compartment is easily closed to create what they claim is a watertight fit. I use it in the shower, but I won’t use it in the bath. I’d just as soon not ruin this by tempting the fates, if ya know what I mean.

Harmony Divine Yin is not very powerful, but I won’t kick it out of bed. The nipple-like button turns it on and cycles through the three speeds. The hard plastic conducts the vibration better than say a jelly toy would; so there’s that. It’s pretty quiet too.

The serious end of Harmony Divine Yin is sort of plug-shaped and is nearly 2 inches in diameter at its widest part. In terms of this being used as a butt plug or a prostate stimulator, it isn’t for the novice butt pirate. However, it’s a nice external stimulator for your taint (perineum) and balls. Because it’s hard plastic, you can sit on it with the pointy end on your rosebud while you whack off. It gives you a nice little buzz. If you’re gonna use it internally; lube is a necessity. Again, because it’s hard plastic, you can use whatever kind of lube you want. This will make the tapered end easier to insert. Not that it’s particularly difficult for those of us who know what we’re doing.

I liked doing my kegel exercises on the Harmony Divine Yin unyielding hardness. If you’re up for it, the ridges in the middle of the toy will provide some extra stimulation during a thrusting motion. Once it’s inserted, it can be pretty much a hands-free toy.

Clean up is super easy with mild soap and warm water. You can also wipe it down with a lint-free towel moistened with peroxide, rubbing alcohol or a 10% bleach solution too.

One final thing, I think this is a bit pricey for a simple straightforward hard plastic vibe, especially since it’s not all that powerful. If it were $10 less, I’d say go for it; what do you have to lose? But for just about $10 more you’d be able get yourself a very nice, powerful silicone vibe that will probably last much longer than the Harmony Divine Yin will.

Jack & Karen tell us about a new Tristan Taormino video.

The Expert Guide to Anal Sex —— $29.95

Jack & Karen
Jack: “So ya’ll know I’m real new at the whole butt sex thing, right? I’m still discovering the pleasures that lie within.”
Karen: “I’ve been dying to strap on one and give this boy a pegging he will not forget.”
Jack: “It’s talk like that that give me pause.”
Karen: “Sorry, honey, I was just making a little joke.”
Jack: “What my foray into anal sex has done for me is give me a greater sensitivity toward women and the invasive sex they have all the time. I mean, if someone were to fuck me in the ass like I have fucked some women in the pussy, without even so much as a warm-up, I’d fuckin kill them.”
Karen: “That is an awakening that I wish all men would come to sooner rather than later.”
Jack: “Anyhow, not to veer too far off topic; I was glad we got this DVD to review. It really opened my eyes to the pleasures to be had in butt fucking.”
Karen: “This is a terrific resource for the novice as well as the proficient alan sex practitioners. International sex expert, Tristan Taormino, talks to a group of (straight) couples about anal anatomy, as well as delvers tips, and techniques of anal pleasure. Her co-hosts, Lorelei and Ariel, demonstrate various techniques as Tristan narrates what they are doing. There’s even a Q&A period.”
Jack: “It is both super arousing and very informative. This is a co-production with one of porn’s biggest companies, Vivid. So you know it’s gonna be hot. Unfortunately, and this is a huge disappointment for me; it’s only about women receiving anal. What, they couldn’t have included some men on the receiving end? Bummer.”
Karen: “That is so true! But that doesn’t diminish the information imparted. For example, Tristan talks about lubes and desensitizing agents; and that’s applicable to both women and men.”
Jack: “You get comments from Tristan as well as pop-up tips about the action throughout the feature. I also liked the way the performers talked about anal sex and why they like it. This goes a long way in helping demystify what is often a taboo subject for most couples.”
Karen: “I like how toys, particularly plugs were used as a warm-up to cock penetration. I know from my own experiences with anal sex that foreplay is essential.”
Jack: “I was also kind of surprised that there was little mention of the increased risks of sexually transmitted diseases with anal sex. NO CONDOMS WERE USED IN THIS MOVIE! What’s up with that? Maybe they didn’t want to scare people who may be considering including anal in their monogamous couple sex. There is a safer sex mini-feature included on the DVD, but I thought there could have been more in the feature itself.”
Karen: “There’s also a featurette on anal hygiene, which I found informative.”
Jack: “I really got off on the hot, hot, hot girl-on-girl bonus scene. Finally a little strap-on action!”
Karen: “We recommend this DVD as a good place to start for women considering anal sex. Guys who are interested in exploring their bottom need to look elsewhere.”

Finally, let’s have a little fun with Ken & Denise and their parlor game. (This is a Good Vibrations Brand Ambassador review.)

Truth or Dare: A Game of Passion —— $16.95

Ken & Denise
Denise: “I love games, all kinds of games. I guess I’m just a party girl at heart.”
Ken: “I, on the other hand, think most games, especially parlor games are boring.”
Denise: “Yeah, but this one is different, because it’s like a sex game.”
Ken: “So we had two of our favorite couples over for dinner last week. We were all sufficiently socially lubricated, if ya catch my drift. We plunked ourselves down in front of the fire for a little postprandial toke, when little Mary sunshine over here hauls out the Truth or Dare game!”
Denise: “What a better time for a little fun?”
Ken: “I’m thinkin’ ‘oh god, do we have to?’ But our friends who are green with envy over our gig on Dr Dick’s Review Crew were like, ‘cool, let’s do this!’”
Denise: “Luckily, considering the condition we were all in, the game is super simple. There’s one die that you roll and two stacks of cards — one marked Truth, the other marked Dare.”
Ken: “The die has Truth or Dare on six of the eight sides. The other two sides have the word ‘Wild’ on it. If you roll that, you get to choose either a Truth or Dare card. Then you can either do the thing yourself or order your partner to perform the task, or you can pass.”
Denise: “We all got increasingly silly as the game wore on. If you choose a Truth card, it may read, ‘If you could watch an intimate moment from your partner’s life before you met, what would that be?’ ‘Would you ever buy a private lap dance for your partner?’ ‘What authority figure possesses the most erotic possibilities for you?’ ‘What sensual characteristic or ability do you envy in the opposite sex?’”
Ken: “The Dare” cards are equally innocuous; however, they often involve props — computers, whipped cream, makeup, etc. ‘You are the subject of an impromptu erotic photo shoot. You partner will be the photographer…’ ‘Perform a seductive and enticing striptease to the music of your choice.’ ‘Create a bondage costume using nothing but plastic wrap!’ You get the idea.”
Denise: “Some of the Dare cards involve calling other people on the phone to ask dumb questions. This is never a good idea, especially when the person you’re calling isn’t as loaded as you are. But we just disregarded those commands, and we had a ball.”
Ken: “I think our friends were a bit intimidated by some of the tasks. They’re not as big a freaks as us. But it’s true; fun was had by all.”
Denise: “Good point! Before you consider playing this game with anyone other than your significant other, review the cards to see if it’s actually a good idea for the company you have in mind.

ENJOY

October 9, 2009July 9, 2026

A little dab’ll do ya!

Sex fans, we have a load of lovely lubes to tell you about. We received five of the hottest selling Boy Butter products to test, and test we did! In fact, The Dr Dick Review Crew has pert near wore out their parts testing this stuff. What we won’t do in the name of science.

Review Crew members; Mick & Chuck, Kevin & Gina, Jack & Karen and Carlos walk us around these products.

Boy Butter Warming 5 oz EZ-Pump —— $20.99

Gina & Kevin
Gina: “We’ve both been wanting to try a warming lube, so I’m glad we were chosen for Boy Butter Warming .”
Kevin: “I like the pump container. It’s easy to use and there’s not the mess that often comes with traditional containers.”
Gina: “This stuff really works! With just the first application I could feel the warming sensations. At first, I thought it was going to get too intense for me, but it didn’t.”
Kevin: “It’s a coconut-oil based lube so it’s not compatible with latex condoms. That’s not an issue for us, but I did want to mention that in my review. Also, this is the first creamy lube we’ve used. I was impressed with its lasting power.”
Gina: “I must confess; I had my misgivings at first. I have very sensitive skin and I often have adverse reactions to new lubes. I checked the label on Boy Butter Warming and secretly thought to myself, I can’t even pronounce half of the ingredients. This doesn’t bode well for me using it. At least, that’s what I thought. Curiously enough, I experienced no irritation or discomfort. So yeah for that!”
Kevin: “We love our silicone lubes, but they are a bitch to clean up and they stain clothing. This product however, despite containing silicone and being oil-based, cleaned up in a snap. In fact, it cleaned up like a water-based lube.

Boy Butter 5 oz EZ-Pump —— $16.99

Carlos
This is the original formula Boy Butter. It comes in several different packaging options, so you may have seen it in a tub or a squeeze bottle. Personally, I think this E-Z pump is the best. It’s easy to handle, and you can dispense just the right amount of lube you need every time. The plastic top keeps it from accidentally messing up anything else it may come in contact with.

I really like the creamy consistency of Boy Butter. It lasts longer than other oil-based lubes I’ve tried; and I’ve tried plenty. The organic coconut-oil base keeps it slick and silky. I’ve never found a better jack-off lube than Boy Butter. It even outlasts my favorite silicone-based lube. I’m sold on this product.

Keep in mind; you can’t use Boy Butter with latex condoms.

Clean up is pretty easy too, soap and warm water will do. It’s so much easier to clean up than my favorite silicone-based lube.

The only drawback that I can see is it doesn’t taste very nice. But then again, I’m just jacking off with it. If I planned to go down on someone, I think I would choose a different lube.

Boy Butter H₂O 5 oz EZ-Pump —— $16.99

Jack & Karen
Jack: “Damn, this stuff is great!”
Karen: “This is the first creamy formula water-based lube I’ve eve seen. I didn’t even know you could make such a thing.”
Jack: “We concur with all our fellow reviewers, Boy Butter H₂O last long, never gets sticky. We really like the pump container too. Very convenient!”
Karen: “This formula is perfect for use with latex condoms. And because it is water-based, clean up is a breeze. It won’t stain clothing or beading either. And that’s a big plus in my book.”
Jack: “Neither one of us experienced any negative reactions to this lube; no irritation, nothing. And we used it for fucking, not just for jillin’ or jackin’ off.
Karen: “Yeah, I was really surprised by this. I’m always very careful about what I put near, on or in my pussy. But knock on wood, I’ve had no adverse reaction at all.”
Jack: “Kudos for great packaging and branding. It’s fun and smart. Funny, up until we got Boy Butter H₂O to review, I had never heard of the company. I wonder, is it a product line that is primarily marketed to gay men?
Karen: “If it is, that would be really too bad. Because other straight and bi folks, like us, would really enjoy Boy Butter H₂O too.
Jack: “Get some today; you won’t be sorry!

Boy Butter Extreme 5 oz. E-Z Pump —— $17.99

Boy Butter Extreme Desensitizing H₂0 Based 5 oz EZ-Pump —— $19.25

Mick & Chuck
Mick: “We have a little confession to make. Chuck and I had already used Boy Butter Extreme before we were asked to review it.”
Chuck: “We hadn’t used the H₂0 Based formula and we really wanted to, so we asked if we could test both products.”
Mick: “Until we tried the H₂0 Based one, we thought Boy Butter Extreme was the best such product on the market. We’ve tired several other desensitizing products, but we liked Boy Butter Extreme best.”
Chuck: “Sometimes Mick has difficulty relaxing into butt sex. I’m not tooting my own horn here, but I’m hung 8.5”, pretty thick too.”
Mick: “Trust me, it’s a sight to behold. But it’s true; I have a tendency to tighten up when I’m just getting started in a fuck. Boy Butter Extreme helps me over this initial phase allows me to enjoy all that is to come.”
Chuck: “I love the pump container. Both products are long-lasting and remain slick and silky, which makes fucking a joy. I hate it when lubes get sticky!”
Mick: “Both products use the maximum amount of Benzocaine (7.5%) allowed by law. So you know this is industrial strength!”
Chuck: “Some people have an adverse reaction to Benzocaine. If you do, these are not the products for you.”
Mick: “I am so happy that Boy Butter make a H₂0 formula, because Chuck has to use a condom when I use either of these products. And the H₂0 Based version is condom safe.”
Chuck: “I was just about to mention that. We had an unfortunate experience a while back when we first started using desensitizing lubes and whatnot. I didn’t wear a condom and my dick became desensitized too.”
Mick: “Come to think of it, this wouldn’t be such a bad thing for a guy who has a real short fuse, right? The Benzocaine would probably just the thing to help him last longer.”
Chuck: “Oh, and may I suggest that you use these products sparingly. A little goes a very long way. You certainly don’t want to over use either of these lubes. It will take all the fun out of the fuck for both top and bottom; you’ll not be able to feel a thing.”
Mick: “Exactly, ya simply want to apply a small amount of Boy Butter Extreme (or the H₂0 Based formula) to your finger, insert it into your ass. Smooth it around till you’ve lightly coated your sphincter. You will notice the numbing effect in a minute or two. Remember, you can always add more if needed, but you can’t eliminate it once it’s been applied. At least, not without soap and water.”
Chuck: “We highly recommend these products with the precautions we mention.”
Mick: “If you’ve shied away from anal sex simply because of the initial discomfort, give one or another of these Boy Butter Extreme products a try. I think you will be pleasantly surprised.”

ENJOY

October 2, 2009July 9, 2026

Luscious LELO, Our Conclusion

For the last seven months, the Dr Dick Review Crew has been reveling in the sensuous pleasures that are LELO. We’ve brought you 4 reviews so far — ELISE, BO, IRIS and GIGI

Today, we conclude our LELO presentation with three other amazing products. Review Crew Members: Kevin & Gina, Joy & Dixie and Brad do the honors.

ELLA —— $44.00

Kevin & Gina
Gina: “We kicked off the LELO reviews with our review of GIGI.”
Kevin: “So there’s some beautiful symmetry to us being part of the concluding reviews.”
Gina: “And speaking of symmetry we have the pleasure of introducing you to ELLA, another stunning pleasure object from the undisputed leader in adult products, LELO!”
Kevin: “ELLA is not a vibrator. It is, however, a beautifully sculpted insertable that is ideal for G-spot or P-spot stimulation.”
Gina: “And you can use either end! It’s like getting two toys in one.”
Kevin: “It comes in the famous LELO high-end packaging. It’s perfect for gift giving. But for those of us who appreciate minimal packaging, it can sometimes feel like over kill.”
Gina: “And because there is no vibration with this pleasure object, there’s no fussing with batteries or dubious recharge ports. Besides, I like the fact that I can be the instrument of my own bliss.”
Kevin: “It’s made of 100% seamless silicone. It is soft and velvety and beautiful to the touch. It’s approximately 7.25 inches long and 1.5 inches across at the widest point. Like Gina mentioned, ELLA can be inserted using either end. The curved tip is just like the GIGI. I LOVE IT!
Gina: “Because it is silicone, it cleans up is easy with mild soap and warm water. You can wipe it down with a lint-free towel moistened with hydrogen peroxide, rubbing alcohol or a 10% bleach solution too. If you’re going to share this toy, and I really think you should, you can serialize it in boiling water for a minute or two, or pop it in the top shelf of the dishwasher.”
Kevin: “I totally agree that you ought to share this toy. We all have a ‘spot’ of one sort or another — G or P, that is. Just insert the curved tip about two inches into your pussy or asshole, as the case may be, with the curve pointed towards the front of your body and rock the handle up and down. Oh baby, oh baby!”
Gina: “Kevin does not exaggerate. This is what I meant when I said I like being the instrument of my own bliss.”
Kevin: “If you’re more of a dildo kinda person, the other, long tapered end of ELLA will put a smile on your face.”
Gina: “Use it on yourself for solo play; use it on your partner for partnered play.”
Kevin: “And it’s not just a pleasure object; it’s also a therapeutic object. You can use this honey to do your Kegels with too. And all of us, men and women need to do those.”
Gina: “Of course, you can use only water-based lube with this beauty. And when you’re finished diddling yourself and/or your partner clean it and store it in the satin pouch thoughtfully provided by the good people at LELO.”
Kevin: “This is one of the more affordable LELO products. Beautiful styling and superior quality for under fifty bucks. You can’t beat that with a stick!”

Next up is BOB. We turn to Brad for his thoughts.

BOB —— $49.00

Brad
Hey, isn’t BOB and acronym for Big Old Bottom? That’s what Dr Dick keeps calling me! So ok, I’m a straight guy with a thing for his prostate. For years I couldn’t admit this to myself, let alone others. But nowadays I’m an out and proud butt pirate.

And as a personal trainer, I often find myself talking to my male clients about prostate health. Apparently, my straight clients find that information easier to take because I’m straight too. And I’ve been telling them about my BOB, you can count on that.

Anyhow, I’m like totally down with BOB, this stylish gentleman’s butt plug. If you’ve never tried a plug, this is the ideal starter size. It’s about 3” of insertable length and not much thicker than my thumb. It is easy to insert, even for the novice. And because its “plug” shaped it stays in place once inserted. BTW, you’ll want to use a water-based lube with this 100% silicone toy.

BOB is so comfortable, as well as being very stimulating, so you can wear it for hours. I do. People often ask me why I smile so much and why am so easy going. If they only knew I had BOB in my ass! I absolutely love saying that.

BOB has this ring on its base; this keeps it from going in too far and makes pulling it out of your ass a breeze. If you really want to treat yourself to a nice prostate massage, all ya do is use the ring to make thrusting and rocking motions. I can actually cum by massaging my prostate like this. I don’t even have to touch my dick.

LELO makes BOB affordable; it’s under $50. But you still get all the special LELO touches, like beautiful packaging and even a little satin pouch for safe keeping, when it’s not up your bum. Because it’s silicone its easy to clean with mild soap and warm water. You can wipe it down with a lint-free towel moistened with peroxide, rubbing alcohol or a 10% bleach solution too. You can serialize it in boiling water for a minute or two, or pop it in the dishwasher.

Dudes, if you still think that ass play, even by yourself is like all gay and stuff, you are totally missing out. Get a BOB and find out what I mean. And you’ll be on your way to some fine pleasure as well as some serious prostate health.

Finally there’s LUNA BEADS and for that review we turn to Joy & Dixie

LUNA BEADS —— $47.00

Joy & Dixie
Joy: “We’re glad to be back with everyone after having a couple months off. We were on an extended holiday and we missed all our toys at home while we were away.”
Dixie: “That’s not exactly true, we did take a couple of our favorite toys with us. One new one that we well talk about at another time, and the other was our delightful LUNA BEADS. They are very discreet and easy to pack. And they are both pleasurable and therapeutic.”
Joy: “LUNA BEADS are LELO’s take on a very old idea, Ben Wa Balls. You’ve heard of them, right? They were invented hundreds of years ago, to enhance female sexual stimulation and to exercise a woman’s PC muscles (pubococcygeus muscle). In other words, you do your Kegel exercises with these puppies.
Dixie: “Here’s a tip; the more Kegels you do, the more intense your orgasms are.”
Joy: “You simply insert the LUNA BEADS, each of which has an inner ball that creates the most amazing vibration sensation.”
Dixie: “The kit comes with two sets of silicone balls that pop in and out of a plastic girdle – one set is close to 30 grams and the other set is around 40 grams.”
Joy: “You can mix and match the weighted balls to build up your PC muscles. And you can wear these for hours, if you’d like. I know I like!”
Dixie: “Being made of silicone they are easy to sterilize, which makes the LUNA BEADS shareable. But for under $50 you may want your own set.”
Joy: “Dixie and I both like to masturbate with the LUNA BEADS. They deliver intense orgasms, because your muscles contract around the vibrating balls.”
Dixie: “You can say that again. And there’s never a need to change batteries or wait for a recharge. You can see why we took the LUNA BEADS on our vacation.”
Joy: “We completely endorse this product. They are both fun and healthful. We’ll never leave home without them.”
Dixie: “Given all the very expensive toys out there, including several of the other LELO products, one can’t go wrong plunking down your hard-earned money for a set of these.”
Joy: “Our friend, Karen, is about to give birth to her first child. We’re going to give her LUNA BEADS at the baby shower. No mother should be without!”

ENJOY!

September 18, 2009July 9, 2026

Gee Wiz!

The Dr Dick Review Crew has taken on a new assignment. We’ve been invited to participate in a new program sponsored by our friends at Good Vibrations. We are now officially A Brand Ambassador. So smell us, why don’t cha!

As A Brand Ambassador, Good Vibes sends us toys, and we review them; just like we do with all the other products we receive directly form manufacturers and feature on Dr Dick’s Sex Toy Reviews.

Our first assignment is the G-TWIST. It’s actually a Fun Factory toy created exclusively for Good Vibrations. We really liked the one other Fun Factory toy we reviewed, SHARE. So needless to say, there were a bunch of the Review Crew who were eager to put this toy through it’s paces. Angie won the lottery and so she will tell you all about G-TWIST.

G-TWIST —— $64.00

Angie
I was so excited to be chosen to review this toy. I’ve wanted to try a Fun Factory toy for ages. I’ve seen their beautiful toys in the shops and online for years now.

First, I want to compliment Good Vibrations on the modest yet stylish packaging they chose for G-TWIST. It’s attractive without being overbearing. I really don’t like excessive packaging; it all seems so wasteful.

I was delighted to find that G-TWIST comes with two AA batteries. This is such a thoughtful addition to any battery-operated toy; I simply don’t understand why more manufacturers don’t do likewise. Good Vibrations also includes a small sample package of water-based lube with their toy. This is, of course, the only kind of lube to use with a beautiful silicone toy like this.

Once out of the package, the G-TWIST is beautiful to the touch. It’s soft, warm and very flexible. It is made of medical grade silicone, which makes it hypoallergenic and easy to clean. That’s because silicone is non-porous. I really like that feature. Too many toys nowadays are made with questionable materials that it makes one nervous about using them intimately. There’s nothing like that to worry about with this vibrator.

The G-TWIST has a lovely ergonomic form. However, it also has a realistic penis shape, particularly at the head. When choosing a vibrator for myself, I inevitably avoid ones that have a penis shape. You see I like incorporating a vibrator in the sex I have with my husband. He is less likely to welcome a mechanical device if it looks too much like his own equipment, if you know what I mean. And listen, I don’t blame him. If the reverse were to happen; if he were to bring a masturbation toy that looked like a vagina to bed for our sex together, I wouldn’t like it very much either. So I had to reserve my G-TWIST use for my private pleasuring.

But before I could do any pleasuring of any kind I had to insert the batteries. This became an extremely frustrating chore. For the life of me, I couldn’t open the battery compartment. I read the instructions carefully, of course, but still couldn’t open it. I finally took it to my husband. At first he just laughed thinking it was a girl thing. But after struggling with it himself, he lost his sense of humor right quick. He finally got the compartment open, but not before exerting considerable pressure with his fingertips. Whoever designed this certainly wasn’t thinking of how much strength the average woman might have in her hands and fingers.

Now that the batteries are finally in place I can easily adjust the vibration up or down using the flower-shaped dial on the base. Pretty nifty! The motor is exceptionally quite, which I really appreciate.

I like a little texture to my insertables, but the ridges on the G-TWIST were a bit extreme for me. However, the girth (1.5” diameter) is just about perfect. I particularly like the flared base. The ridges there are perfect for clitoral stimulation. The vibration isn’t particularly strong, but that’s not a big issue for me.

My major concern was with the clean up. This toy is not, I repeat, NOT waterproof. The box says that you can clean this toy under running water, but one must make sure to keep the battery compartment closed and dry. It goes on to say, “To prevent possible leakage simply avoid submerging the toy in water for an extended period of time.” I’m afraid that this smacks of trying to have it both ways. You can call it splash proof or water resistant, but we all know that’s a far cry from actually being waterproof. As it turns out, it’s a whole lot easier to get water inside the battery compartment than it is to open that compartment to switch out the batteries. That I just don’t understand.

I successfully enjoyed my G-TWIST, by myself for two weeks. I was scrupulous about cleaning my toy without submerging it in water. After about 8 uses the G-TWIST simply stopped working. At first I thought it was the batteries. My husband helped me open the battery compartment so I could put in fresh batteries. But that didn’t bring it back to life.

I have no idea what happened. I would be hard-pressed to say it was something I did. But there it is, dead as a doornail. And I’m just sick about it. Obviously, I can’t recommend the G-TWIST, which makes me feel even worse. Because before it went dead, it was a very nice toy.