A Brief History of Vibrators & How You'll Feel After Using Your First Vibe
The First Vibrator Was Invented to Treat Depression and Anxiety
The history of vibrators is fascinating. Steeped in medical theory and cultural attitudes towards women's health, the historical context of vibrators is rooted in their potential health benefits. Believe it or not, the first vibrator, invented by American physician George Taylor back in 1869, wasn't designed as a sex toy but rather as a therapeutic tool for treating symptoms of depression and anxiety.
According to Carol Queen, PhD, renowned sexologist and curator of the Good Vibrations Antique Vibrator Museum, this device was created as a tool to treat what was then collectively referred to at the time as "hysteria". Now, more commonly attributed to symptoms of anxiety, depression, or high stress, hysteria represents various emotional conditions experienced by women such as nervousness, irritability, or unexplained bouts of sadness.
In those times hysteria treatment involved vulval or clitoral massage using vibration therapy which essentially induced orgasms in patients. Women would lie on their backs on tables fitted with vibrating balls under their pelvis area that facilitated these therapeutic orgasms.
Ever wondered if you would feel any differently after using a vibrator?
The humming delight is not just for your most pleasurable nights; it also moonlights as a sleep aid and mental health booster. Surprised? Don't be.
Much like how an invigorating workout can flood you with endorphins and lead to a good night's rest, so does our friend - the trusty vibrator. It has that magical touch, tucking us into bed after delivering mood-boosting hormones.
Beyond this nocturnal bliss, vibrators play cupid by keeping our hearts healthy too. Who would've thought these buzzing devices could echo beats of love all over?
Are you primed to plunge in?
9 Physical & Mental Changes You May Notice After Using a Vibrator
If you thought vibrators were only for sexual pleasure, think again. The benefits of using a vibrator extend far beyond the bedroom and into aspects of health and wellness that might surprise you.
1. You May Experience Improved Sleep Sessions
The release of endorphins and prolactin after an orgasm can help improve sleep quality. Using a wand vibrator, for instance, before bed could be your ticket to more restful nights.
2. You May Have Less Pain
Vibrations from sex toys like bullet vibes or vibrating plugs can provide relief from menstrual cramps or chronic pain conditions by increasing blood flow and relaxing muscles in the affected area.
3. You May Have an Unexpected Self-Esteem Boost
Taking control of your own pleasure with sex toys like dual stimulation vibes can boost self-esteem and body confidence, contributing positively to overall mental wellbeing.
4. Your Sexual Health May Improve
Vibrator use has been linked with improved sexual function such as increased desire, arousal, lubrication, satisfaction & orgasm among women according to research published in Journal Of Sexual Medicine, (Miyake, 2007).
5. Your Sex Life May Be Healthier
Exploring one's desires through non-internal vibrators promotes open communication with one’s partner about preferences leading to better intimacy.
6. Your Mood Can Boost
Orgasms are known mood lifters thanks to the dopamine rush they induce.
7. Your Skin Might Glow, Literally
Increased circulation during arousal leads to healthier skin complexion.
8. You Might Feel a Bit Less Stressed (Bye, Bye Stress!)
Orgasms release oxytocin, a hormone that helps lower stress levels.
9. Your Pelvic Floor Muscles May Strengthen
Regular orgasms can strengthen pelvic floor muscles which are beneficial for bladder control and childbirth recovery.
The penis vibes, pendant vibes or g-spot vibes you use aren't just toys; they're tools of empowerment.
The sex toy market's growth is evidence enough that the world is beginning to recognize this shift from "is using a sex toy normal?" to "sex toys are healthy".
So, next time you reach for your vibrator, remember it's not just about pleasure - it's also about self-care.
Trouble Sleeping? Time For a New Vibe!
Many people struggle to get a good night's sleep, but there might be an unexpected solution - using a vibrator regularly. It may sound unconventional, but the link between sexual satisfaction and sleep quality is supported by scientific research.
A study conducted by Central Queensland University found that over half of participants reported improved sleep quality after using a vibrator before bed, (Lastella, 2019). Even more compelling? Those same folks also fell asleep faster. That's two very good reasons to consider incorporating vibrators into your nighttime routine.
A study from the University of Rome Tor Vergata found that using vibrators contributes to lower anxiety and depression scores due to the hormonal release that occurs during orgasm. 69% participants reported improved moods after using sex toys regularly, (Burnham, 2019).
The Role of Vibrators in Mental Health
Using a vibrator can be more than just an avenue for sexual satisfaction. Surprisingly, vibrators have a notable impact on psychological well being. Let's explore how.
1. Hormones Released During Orgasm
At climax, the release of hormones such as dopamine (the feel-good hormone) and oxytocin (often referred to as the love or cuddle hormone) can contribute significantly to one's overall mood and wellbeing.
Dopamine, known as the feel-good hormone, and oxytocin, often called the love or cuddle hormone, are released during orgasm which helps with stress relief and boosts your mood.
Vibrators offer different types of stimulation (clitoral stimulation being one) helping you achieve orgasms more easily - leading to those helpful hormone spikes.
Rabbit vibrators are particularly popular because they provide dual clitoral and penetrative stimulations resulting in increased sexual desire among women of all different ages.
Beyond solo use, incorporating vibrators into partnered sex can open up new avenues for intimacy by providing mutual pleasure thereby enhancing both partners' mental wellbeing. So why not give them a try?
2. The Impact on Sleep Quality
You may have heard about bedtime rituals like reading or meditating but what about adding some self-love into the mix? Regularly using a vibrator before bed could actually improve sleep quality according to research conducted by Central Queensland University.
Sexual arousal and orgasm can bring a soothing sensation to the body, assisting in faster sleep onset. So using your trusty vibrator could be one of many good reasons to get that much-needed night's sleep.
3. The Correlation with Heart Health
Hard to believe, but it's true - vibrators could also lend a hand in keeping your heart ticking right.
Vibrators and Heart Health
Surprisingly, the idea of vibrators and heart health likely doesn't occur to most people. But surprise, surprise. According to a study from the University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey, regular vibrator use can give your ticker quite a boost.
Masturbation, often aided by sex toys such as vibrators, can provide the same cardiovascular benefits as a moderate workout. Now doesn't that sound more fun?
Regular orgasms – whether achieved alone or with partners – are known to increase blood flow throughout the body. This enhanced circulation helps keep our cardiovascular system in tip-top shape. And when it comes down to it: good sex is also good exercise.
The Connection Between Sexual Arousal and Cardiovascular Health
Your heartbeat quickens during sexual arousal because your body needs more oxygen-rich blood pumping through its veins - this is also what happens when you engage in cardio exercises.
This increased heart rate aids in strengthening cardiac muscles over time while promoting efficient blood flow—a crucial factor for maintaining overall cardiovascular health.
Get Your Blood Pumping
Vibrator use not only adds an exciting twist to solo play or partnered sex but also contributes significantly towards achieving this healthy state of sexual arousal.
A wide range of vibrators offer varied intensity levels—think everything from gentle pulsations all the way up-to thigh-quaking throbbers—which allows you ample room for exploration based on comfort level and preference. It's about what feels best to you after all.
For those with health conditions that may limit physical activity or cause discomfort during penetrative sex, vibrators provide an alternative way to achieve orgasm and stimulate blood flow. This could help improve heart health over time.
Maintaining Vaginal Health with Regular Sexual Activity
One of the various advantages of sexual intercourse, particularly when a vibrator is employed, is its capacity to sustain vaginal wellbeing. This can be especially beneficial for women who are dealing with female sexual health conditions or changes related to aging.
Role of Vibrators in Preventing Vaginal Atrophy
Vibrators can offer significant help in maintaining vaginal and pelvic floor muscle function. The action provided by these sex toys stimulates blood flow and helps keep your pelvic muscles toned. It's like a workout for your vagina!
This is particularly important because as we age, our bodies naturally go through changes - one being decreased elasticity in our intimate areas due to reduced estrogen levels.
A study conducted by Dr. Alex Eskander, a consultant gynecologist at North Gynaecology Clinic, found that regular sexual activity helps maintain elasticity and moisture within the vagina walls. These factors play crucial roles in preventing what is known as 'vaginal atrophy,’ or the thinning, drying, and inflammation of the vaginal walls due to low estrogen levels.
Vibrators can give more than just clitoral stimulation; they also promote increased blood flow which strengthens the pelvic floor muscles while offering deep pleasure all around. Even if penetrative sex isn't on your agenda every day (or even every week), vibrators make sure you're still giving those essential muscles some TLC.
The wonderful thing about using a vibrator regularly? It doesn’t only feel good but has potential long-term benefits too.
Pelvic Floor Muscle Strength & Functionality
The pelvic floor muscles support the bladder, bowel, and uterus. When these muscles are strong and healthy, they ensure proper function of your organs. But when weakened or strained (due to childbirth, surgery, or menopause), it can lead to conditions like incontinence.
Engaging in regular sexual activity, whether that be solo with a vibrator or partnered sex,can help maintain pelvic floor muscle strength. Think about it this way: each time you have an orgasm; your pelvic floor contracts and then relaxes again. This process is similar to doing kegel exercises.
The Power of Orgasms in Pain Relief
Period pains and cramps can often feel like an unwelcome visitor that comes knocking every month. A vibrator's ability to induce orgasms has been scientifically shown to help reduce the discomfort of period pains and cramps. Yes, you heard it right. It's time we started seeing our vibrators not just as tools for pleasure but also allies in pain relief.
The Science Behind Orgasms and Pain Reduction
An orgasm is more than just a climax; it’s a complex series of events happening inside your body. One important event involves releasing endorphins - natural painkillers produced by the brain. These 'feel good' hormones flood your system when you reach climax, helping to relieve both physical and emotional stress.
A research project associated with Harvard Medical School discovered some intriguing facts about this phenomenon. The study found that sexual arousal numbs the female nervous system to such an extent that a woman doesn't feel as much pain – even more so during orgasm.
In fact, orgasms activate the part of our brains responsible for blocking out pain signals without any side effects, an aspect of our biology that is typically utilized with the help of pharmaceutical analgesics (pain relievers). This makes them quite unique.
If period pains are causing havoc on your daily routine or affecting sleep quality at night-time due to persistent cramping, introducing regular orgasms into your self-care regime could provide significant benefits.
Vibrators offer quick ways towards achieving those sweet moments of release while also stimulating blood flow in the pelvic area, which can further aid in reducing menstrual discomforts. Whether it's clitoral stimulation from bullet-style vibes or deep, pulsating sensations from a rabbit vibrator – there are numerous ways to find relief.
However, remember that everyone's body responds differently. Different people may experience varying results. It's all about finding what feels good and works best for you.
Moreover, using vibrators is not just limited to women experiencing period pain; it can also provide benefits in relieving vulvar pain due to conditions like vulvodynia or endometriosis by promoting relaxation of pelvic floor muscles.
Conclusion
Who knew the health benefits of using a vibrator could be so vast? Beyond providing sexual pleasure, using a vibrator can also be beneficial for your overall well-being.
You now know that regular use can enhance sleep quality. That those buzzing moments before bed can lead to dream-filled nights. And isn't good sleep the key to a healthier life?
We've learned how vibrators play their part in boosting mental health too, releasing feel-good hormones and relieving stress. We see now why they're not just sex toys but mood boosters as well.
And who would have thought of heart health! Yet here we are with evidence suggesting this surprising correlation between our hearts and these playful devices.
The secret is out - from aiding vaginal health to providing pain relief during periods, vibrators truly offer an array of positive effects on women's health.
All said and done, remember: there’s always room for discovery when you explore what feels good!
References:
Burnham A. J. (2019). Scientific Advances in Controlling Nosema ceranae (Microsporidia) Infections in Honey Bees (Apis mellifera). Frontiers in veterinary science, 6, 79. https://doi.org/10.3389/fvets.2019.00079Lastella, M., O'Mullan, C., Paterson, J. L., & Reynolds, A. C. (2019). Sex and Sleep: Perceptions of Sex as a Sleep Promoting Behavior in the General Adult Population. Frontiers in public health, 7, 33. https://doi.org/10.3389/fpubh.2019.00033
Miyake K. (2007). Innate immune sensing of pathogens and danger signals by cell surface Toll-like receptors. Seminars in immunology, 19(1), 3–10. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.smim.2006.12.002
Nichols, H., & Brito, J. (2023, October 17). Are there side effects to masturbation? Medical News Today. https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/320265#health-benefits-of-masturbation
