Vaginal Vibrators: What Are They And How Do You Use Them?
For many people, vaginal vibrators are exactly what they picture when someone mentions the words, “sex toys.”
These insertable vibrators tend to resemble a phallus — at least a little (if not a lot!) — and are often used to simulate penetrative vaginal intercourse with the addition of vibrations for more intense stimulation.
Here’s the thing, though: Vaginal stimulation alone only produces orgasm in about a third of women.
Luckily, there are plenty of other ways to play with insertable vibrators.
A vaginal vibrator can be used on erogenous zones that include the:
- Clitoris
- Labia
- Vulva
- Nipples
- Inner thighs
- Penis
- Testicles
- Any other erogenous zones that you or your partner enjoy
Vaginal vibrators can feature simple, phallic designs, but they may also have appendages for G-spot or clitoral stimulation that are typically found in rabbits.
Some even have curves to better reach specific areas like the G-spot.
We’ll explain everything you need to know about vaginal vibrators, but if you’re thinking about trying one, click here for our top recommendations.
In this article, we’ll talk about:
Editor’s Note: This article is part of our How To Use A Vibrator and Everything Vibrators hubs, in-depth and evolving resources that comprehensively explore all aspects of vibrators from the different types and how to use them, to materials and safety — created to help you achieve the sexual pleasure you deserve.
What Is A Vaginal Vibrator?
At its simplest, a vaginal vibrator is used to penetrate the vagina and provide stimulation that, for some, leads to an orgasm.
Some insertable vibes of this nature are designed specifically to mimic intercourse through motorized thrusting.
Will the wonders of modern technology never cease?
Vaginal vibrators can offer many features that may include:
- Multiple speed settings, patterns, and vibration intensities
- Customizable settings for speed, pattern, or vibration
- Motorized thrusting to mimic realistic penetration
- An outer material with a skin-like finish (often silicone)
- An appearance that looks like a real penis
- Having a heated shaft for temperature play
- Being rechargeable
- Being waterproof
- Remote or app control for hands-free or partnered use
- Pelvic floor muscle stimulation to increase pelvic floor muscle contraction
- Some models designed for pelvic floor muscle stimulation may be inflatable for a better fit
Vaginal vibrators can vary in size, with the total insertable length ranging anywhere from 3”- 6” or longer, with a girth diameter of less than an inch to greater than two.
For this reason, there is an insertable vaginal vibrator out there to suit anyone’s anatomy and personal pleasure preference.
And yes, this means that many vaginal vibrators look like a penis — although not always a realistic one.
Many vaginal vibrators are G-spot specific, featuring a curve designed to reach this area with greater ease.
Because vaginal vibrators are used internally, their noise level can be on the quieter side during use, with the vagina muffling much of the outward sound.
The cost of a vaginal vibrator can vary considerably depending on the material it’s crafted from and the features it offers, and where you buy it.
We took a look at the selection of vaginal vibrators at Adam & Eve, a sex toy retailer we trust because we reviewed them personally, and found that vaginal vibes range from about $20 to as high as $200.
No matter what you’re looking for, there’s a vaginal vibrator to suit your every need and desire.
→ For more, read:
How To Use A Vaginal Vibrator
An insertable vibrator may look like a penis, but that certainly doesn’t have to restrict how you use it.
A vaginal vibrator can pleasure your thighs, nipples, neck and back, feet, between or around your breasts, or almost anywhere else you think a little buzzing would feel nice.
(Not the anus though — more on that later.)
For vaginal stimulation, a phallic vibrator can be inserted and used to mimic a thrusting penis.
This is not a hands-free method, as your hand will be doing all the work.
Self-thrusting vibes do exist though, and they can provide realistic thrusts without your hands getting involved in the process.
Remember though, that there’s no single right way to use an insertable vibrator.
Once you reach a state of arousal, your body’s nerve endings will likely guide you toward the type of stimulation you want.
If it feels good and is not contrary to the instructions, you’re using it the right way.
The only place a vaginal sex toy should not go is inside the anus.
That’s because anal vibrators are designed with a flared base — so there’s no risk of them getting lost inside the body. Nobody wants to make that trip to the emergency room.
How To Use A Vaginal Vibrator For Masturbation
If you’re new to phallic vibrators, or sex toys in general, there are a few important rules to keep in mind.
Start on a low setting and work your way up.
It’s a good idea to cycle through your vaginal vibrator’s speeds, settings, and patterns, to get a feel for what they can do before you insert the vibrator.
Additionally, this lets you get familiar with the buttons and how they work.
Create a relaxing atmosphere and engage in plenty of sensual play with yourself before inserting it, and make sure to use a lube that’s compatible with your toy.
Experiment with angle, depth, and pressure until you find something you like.
Don’t make orgasming with your vibrator the only goal – relax and enjoy yourself!
Finally, clean your sex toys thoroughly between uses.
→ For more, read:
How Can Couples Use Vaginal Vibrators?
Vibrator penetration can be a fun prelude to intercourse with a partner, but they’re also a useful tool for new partners who are in the process of learning each other’s bodies.
Partners can experiment by using the vibe for vaginal stimulation, but also on other body parts.
As we mentioned earlier, insertable vaginal vibrators can be used for far more than their “intended” purpose, teasing just about any erogenous zone on either partner’s body.
A vaginal vibrator can be used at different angles while inside the vagina, but it can also be used for external stimulation of the vulva or clitoris, the nipples, and anywhere else that feels nice.
This type of vibe can be used to stimulate the shaft of the penis, the testicles, inner thighs, or other sweet spots, as well.
Couples can tease one another with a vaginal vibrator, employ it during mutual masturbation, or even use it during partnered sex, which we’ll talk about next.
How Can You Use A Vaginal Vibrator During Sex?
So glad you asked!
Insertable vibrators can be used in lots of fun ways during intercourse.
As we mentioned earlier, about 36% of women need clitoral stimulation to reach orgasm — vaginal orgasms just don’t happen for everyone — and using a phallic vibrator to stimulate the clit during penetration can get the job done.
The vibrator can also be used to tease the nipples, testicles, or other erogenous zones during penetrative sex.
Additionally, an insertable vibrator can be used inside the vagina during anal sex if a couple wants to experiment with double penetration.
- Do You Need Lube With A Vaginal Vibrator?
It’s a good idea to use lube with an insertable sex toy — especially one that’s new to you.
However, some people have adequate natural lubrication and feel that lube is less necessary for vaginal penetration.
It’s a matter of personal preference, of course, but lube can make the experience better.
Water-based lubricants feel the most natural and also play well with any sex toy material — which is great if you aren’t sure what materials your sex toy is made from.
It’s also great if you want to use the same lube for every toy in your collection.
Who doesn’t want “One Lube To Rule Them All?”
Looking at oil-based lubes or silicone lubricants?
Read the instructions that came with your vibrator to make sure they’re compatible.
Modern vibes are too expensive to ruin (or replace) because you didn’t want to spend $10 on the right lube.
Can You Use A Vaginal Vibrator Anally?
Succinctly put, no. Never do that.
Sex toys designed for anal use feature a wide, flared base to ensure that they won’t get lost inside your body.
That would be a disaster.
While the vagina becomes “closed off” at the cervix, the anus has an open connection with the rectum, which connects to the intestines…you see where we’re going here.
Many a vibrator has gotten “lost” up there.
Don’t let yourself become a victim – or a funny story shared among the staff at your local ER.
Vaginal vibes can be used around the perineum, buttocks, or near the anus — but should not be inserted.
Are Vaginal Vibrators Safe?
Yes. For most people, using a vaginal vibe per the instructions and common sense is perfectly safe — even during pregnancy.
Those suffering from vaginal atrophy, vaginismus, or even a vibrating vagina, however, may find an insertable vibrator to be uncomfortable at best — and incredibly painful at worst.
In such cases, vaginal vibrators are best avoided unless otherwise specified by your healthcare provider.
Other safety concerns to keep in mind are to:
- Use a compatible lube with your vibe to prevent the breakdown of its material
- Only buy sex toys made from safe materials
- Be aware of any allergies you have and avoid sex toys that contain them, such as rubber if you’re allergic to latex
- Avoid vibes made from unsafe or unknown materials
There’s a long-standing rumor that vibrator use can ruin sex with a partner, or that regular vibe use can desensitize your clitoris or vagina.
That’s just not so.
Permanent desensitization of any body part is the result of nerve damage — which rarely occurs from vibrator use.
Even if short-term numbness happens after an extended session with your favorite vibrator, it goes away after a bit — sort of like when you lay on your arm the wrong way and it falls asleep.
It doesn’t stay that way forever.
Take a break for a little while and the sensation should return in short order.
In Conclusion
Vaginal vibes can do a whole lot more than simulate penile penetration — though they are pretty awesome for that too.
Whether you’re looking for new ways to use your current penetrative vibrator, or you’re on the lookout for a new model, our Everything Vibrators guide is a great place to start.
Want to skip the reading and find your perfect vibe match right now?
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