Lesbian Sex Toys, Vibrators, Dildos, and Strap-Ons.

Naturally, Lesbians have a wealth of battery-operated toys at their disposal, from the petite silver bullet to mighty hand-held clit stimulators like the Miracle Massager which can be used alone of with a partner.

Non-vibrating toys like dildos, plugs and probes are great for manual stimulation and come in a variety of sizes that will please the nervous beginner to the size queen.

Strap-on harnesses will allow lesbian couples to enjoy penetration play and will accommodate many different sizes and styles of dildos.

Anal sex toys aren't just for gay men anymore, and many Lesbian couples have found that adding anal stimulation gives a whole new dimension to their sex play.

Double-headed dildos can be enjoyed for simultaneous penetration by two, or they can be folded in half and used for solo double penetration.

Dental dams are crucial for enjoying safe oral sex with non-monogamous partners.

What’s the percentage of women who use sex toys?

The world-wide Durex study states that between 60% and 80% percent of all women use sex toys of some kind.

There are vibrators, personal massagers, dildos: What’s the difference?

In the past, "dildo" was the name given to almost all vibrating sexual devices, while non-vibrating phallic devices were called "dongs." Now, dongs and dildos generally have the same definition: A non-vibrating phallus-shaped item designed to provide sexual pleasure through vaginal or anal penetration, not clitoral stimulation.

A dildo can look totally realistic with the soft texture of a real phallus, or it may be perfectly smooth and non-representational. Put a vibrating motor in a dildo and it becomes, you guessed it, a vibrator. Vibrators offer more powerful stimulation and can also be used to arouse the clitoris. A “personal massager” is a polite euphemism for a vibrator and "Marital Aid" is just a silly, antiquated term for a sex toy.

What are Phthalates?

Plastic starts out hard. In an effort to make the materials softer and more lifelike, PVC plastics suppliers incorporate one or more members of a family of compounds called phthalates (FAY-lates.) This accounts for their widespread use in most plastic products: Tupperware, baby bottles and even sex toys.

Though they do give dildos and vibrators a soft and flexible feel, there are growing health concerns related to the possibility of Phthalates leeching into the body and causing endocrine disruptions or even increase the risk of certain cancers. Though effects of these substances have primarily been documented in rodents. And though there is insufficient evidence that Phthalates actually cause harm in humans, it's better to avoid them altogether.

If your soft sex toy is not made from Silicone or TPR material, or if it does not specifically state that it is "phthalate-free" it most likely contains them. Hard materials, like pyrex glass, wood, metal, and even hard plastics do not contain phthalates. If you must use a Phthalate-containing toy, a simple way to protect yourself is to cover it with a latex condom.

Who makes the highest-quality sex toys?

Due to high production costs, the majority of sex toys are made from cheap components in China. While they come at a fraction of the cost of higher-end models, they tend to be constructed from inferior materials and have a high defect rate. Better to spend a bit more with companies known for quality, like LELO, a Swedish manufacturer known for their stylish designs and expert construction. VIBRATEX toys are crafted in Japan and renowned for their durability and construction. And TANTUS is a U.S manufacturer of unique, high-end silicone toys.

What can I do about a loud vibrator?

The sound of a noisy sex toy is often generated by the vibration of the batteries against the internal plastic tubing. You can reduce this noise by lining the casing with a rolled piece of paper.

Can I get “numb” from using a vibrator?

If you're familiar with the Hitachi Magic Wand you'll know that applying strong, continuous pressure on any part of the body can cause the surrounding tissue to feel “numb.” However, this is only a temporary condition.

You can remedy this by limiting direct contact by placing a towel, sheet or blanket between you and the vibrator, or just vary the pressure.

Can you have an orgasm from anal stimulation?

Absolutely. The anus, richly endowed with nerve endings and interconnected with the main pelvic muscles, is the closest erogenous neighbor of the genitals and contracts rhythmically during orgasm. Many women report that they can achieve orgasms from anal stimulation alone.

What’s the difference between a probe, plug or beads?

Butt Plugs create a sensation of fullness in the rectum which can heighten sexual intensity during sex.

Anal Vibrators and probes manually stimulate the anus alone or during sex.

Anal Beads are inserted into the rectum and then slowly pulled out bead by bead during orgasm. This helps to intensify orgasm.

How are anal lubricants different from regular lubricants?

Regular lubricants tend to have a lighter, thinner consistency. Anal lubricants have more viscosity and stay where you put them.

Is it safe to “share” toys with a partner or friends?

Sex toy usage should be treated with the same care that you would treat any other kind of partner sex. ANY object that comes in contact with the genitals can transfer bacteria or viruses. That means it should be completely sterilized before usage or covered with a condom.

It’s always safer to use your own sex toys with a partner, but if you must share, it's preferable to use silicone, pyrex or hard plastic toys since they are non-porous and can be completely disinfected.

My girlfriend wants to bring food into the bedroom.

If your Lady wants to go the 9 1/2 Weeks route we've got two words for you: yeast infection.

I'm pregnant and horny but my wife doesn't know how far she can go.

Just like heterosexual couples, many lesbian couples worry about the safety of sexual activity during pregnancy. It's no fun when your hormones are raging out of control and your partner is afraid to "hurt the baby." Obviously, you'll want to avoid deep thrusting, but just rest assured that if you're having a normal, complication-free pregnancy your wife can go ahead plug that Hitachi Magic Wand back in.

How do I use a strap-on?

You can start by identifying what kind of experience you and your partner are looking for. Do you want it to look and feel exactly like a real penis? Would your partner prefer that it look non-representational? Or, would either of you prefer vibration?

If you are an absolute beginner you may save time and money by choosing a strap-on kit. These generally contain the harness, dildo and everything else you'll need to get started though they may tend to lack variety.Buying your harness separately will allow you to pick the exact size and style, as well as select the dildo attachment that suits your fancy.

Harnesses can shift around during penetration or be uncomfortable if they aren't adjusted correctly. It's not always as easy as it looks! If you've never used a strap-on harness before, try experimenting with it solo before you try it on a partner. Try it on in front of the mirror and make sure you get a perfect fit. Also, you can straddle a pillow in bed and get used to the motion. (If you suspect it might cause chafing, you can wear a pair of underwear beneath it to act as a barrier.)

When you're finally ready to "strap one on" with your partner, don't dive in before she's ready! Make sure you've adequately stimulated her with your fingers or oral sex, and make sure you have plenty of personal lubricant on hand. You may know her body like the back of your hand but if she's not accustomed to your new dildo it could prove to be an uncomfortable experience for the both of you. Better to take your time and do it right!

I'm a plus-sized woman. Can I wear a strap-on?

Of course you can! Most Harnesses like the Vac-U-Lock brand accommodate up to 44" waists.

Stormy Leather's famous Terra Firma Harness accommodates up to 56" hips.

Why use a lubricant?

Sex lubricants last longer than natural body fluids and help to reduce friction. Best of all, they increase pleasure by adding a sensual glide to any sexual activity.

What are the different kinds of lubricants?

Water-based lubricants like Astroglide usually contain glycerin. This substance has a light consistency and a sweet aftertaste. When its water content evaporates it can become a little sticky but quick sprits of water will “reactivate” it. There are also excellent new glycerin-free and silicone-free lubricants like Intimate Organics Hydra Lube that forgo all artificial ingredients but are still long-lasting and latex-safe.

Silicone-based lubricants like Pjur Eros Lube last forever because they sit on top of the skin instead of absorbing into it. A few drops of this lube and you’ll be slipping and sliding all night. It even stays “wet” under water! The main drawbacks of silicone-based lubes is that they aren't compatible silicone toys and are harder to remove (without soap and water.)

Anal lubricants can be silicone or water-based but tend to have a thicker consistency and stay where you put them.

Never use “home” products for lubrication! Substances that aren't designed for vaginal use can upset your natural Ph. (Products like Crisco, hair conditioner, mineral oil, Vaseline, cold cream and moisturizers are a yeast infection waiting to happen!) Stay on the safe side and stick with products designed for SEX.