Pleasure and Sex
This section includes information on sexual pleasure. More content coming soon!
Sex Toys
Sex with a partner or self-pleasure can be more fun when using equipment, but that also must be done safely! Sugar, an LGBTQ-owned and operated sex shop in Hampden, has some great advice about what sex toys to get and how to use them, including a guide to getting your first vibrator. Below are some of the posts from the Sugar website:
Here are some tips to safely using sex toys:
Some STIs can live on sex toys for weeks. It’s important to clean a toy properly to prevent STI transmission. It is also important to remove sperm from toys before they are used near a vagina.
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Some tips for avoiding STIs from sex toys include
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keeping sex toys clean – wash them after each use
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covering penetrative sex toys, such as vibrators, with a new condom each time they're used or each time an activity changes
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not sharing sex toys
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having a different set of sex toys for each partner
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Before cleaning, remove any batteries. Never submerge electrical components in water. Use a damp, soapy washcloth to clean your electric toys, preferably with anti-bacterial soap. Keep toys stored in a container or pouch (to keep them clean) and in a cool, dry place.
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Check the manufacturer’s guide for specific instructions on how to clean your sex toy, you can find some general advice for cleaning sex toys of specific materials here!
Lube
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Lube can be used to reduce friction and facilitate sensation during sex.
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If you are using lube with a latex polyurethane, or polyisoprene condom, you should use a water or silicone-based lube. Oil-based lubes will break down the condom.
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If you are using lube with a silicone-based sex toy, you should only use a water-based lube to prevent damage to the sex toy.
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Lube can be used on the vagina, penis, or anus and can be used for sex or masturbation.
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It can be found at any drugstore in an aisle with condoms and other sex-related products.