The Best Vibrators for First-Timers, According to Experts

Slate has relationships with various online retailers. Carol Queen, Good Vibrations staff sexologist and writer, explains that a common misconception is that masturbation should mimic penis-vagina sex, and thus that people with vaginas should be looking for something like a dildo. But this is misguided, she says, since 75 percent of people with vaginas do not climax from intercourse alone: “Getting some idea about one’s own body, and general sexual anatomy, and responsiveness really is the secret sauce to buying a sex toy and enjoying it.” Jenni Skyler, certified sex therapist and sexologist for Adam & Eve, says it’s important for people with vaginas to consider the entire genital area. “Every human with a clitoris probably has a lot of sensation.” The clitoris is such an intensely sensitive spot, it can sometimes be overwhelming, so Malika O’Neill, sexologist and owner of Fancy Desires & Co., suggests another good starting place for beginners is with a G-spot vibrator. * “And if it’s too powerful, you can add a towel on top of you or something like that to dilute the sensations.” The experts suggest using lubrication with your toys.