We’ve heard the jokes, we’ve read the stories, but there is one masturbation myth that keeps surprising us no matter how often it’s referenced in pop culture: the electric toothbrush vibrator. And today, a gynaecologist has warned women not to use electric toothbrushes to masturbate, lest they cause trauma to their vulva.
Dr. Anne Henderson made the comments to The Sun, describing using toothbrushes to masturbate as an ‘interesting new trend’ before warning people off doing it completely. It comes as women continue to post on Reddit about the experience.
‘I would have serious concerns about anyone using an electric toothbrush for anything other than cleaning their teeth,’ Dr. Henderson told the publication. ‘The structure and shape of the toothbrush, regardless of which part is used, could potentially injure, lacerate or cause trauma to the delicate vulval area, particularly the clitoris, especially if one of the more aggressive cleaning heads is used.'
‘There is also the issue of hygiene and how to adequately clean the toothbrush,’ she added. ‘The whole issue is fraught with potential complications and should be avoided at all costs.’
The whole issue is fraught with potential complications and should be avoided at all costs
There have been plenty of references to toothbrush masturbation in popular culture. Notably, the infamous Sugar Rush scene when Kim – portrayed by Olivia Hallinan – remarked ‘my toothbrush has seen better days’ before masturbating with it. Most recently, Amy from The Big Bang Theory – portrayed by Mayim Bialik – discusses using her electric toothbrush for ‘tension-relieving techniques for ladies’ multiple times and insinuates she uses it to masturbate regularly.
According to Lauren Rosewarne’s Masturbation in Pop Culture, multiple sex researchers have found women who prefer toothbrushes to actual vibrators - with Rebecca Chalker stating one woman found vibrators too harsh’.
Of course, if you don’t like a particular vibrator – for whatever reason – the least damaging response is to find another that is less powerful or fits your needs better. When there are so many amazing, affordable vibrators on the market, with high-street supermarkets even launching their own sex toys these days – there is no excuse to risk your health with a toothbrush.
Need more proof? Just check out our gallery of the best solo-sex toys for women. We promise, you won’t be disappointed...
The Best Solo Sex Toys For Women
1 of 15Womanizer Premium 2, WAS £169, NOW £139
Dubbed the 'Prada of sex toys', the Womanizer Premium 2 has more intensity levels than their other - already incredible - product line and an improved Autopilot function to take you on new, unpredictable adventures...
2 of 15We Vibe Melt, £119
A connected and contactless clitoral stimulator, this sex toy features patented Pleasure Air technology which stimulates the sensitive nerve endings of the clitoris with pulsating air waves and gentle suction. The slim and ergonomic design makes it easy to slip between two partners during sex, or to use by yourself - whatever makes you happiest!
3 of 15Liberty by Lily Allen, £89
The upgraded Womanizer vibrator, Lily Allen's 'Liberty' has received rave reviews. It's no surprise coming from the mother of all sex toy companies, and at just £89 it's one of their cheaper options. Don't be deterred by the price though, the orgasms you'll be having with this are more than worth it.
4 of 15Womanizer Duo, £179
The holy grail of vibrators, the Womanizer Duo has been remastered twice to create the ultimate solo sex toy. Combining the Pleasure Air technology of the Pro 40 - that stimulates your clitoris by mimicking oral sex (but better) - with a G-Spot massager intended to make you feel 'full', it's the definition of perfection. At £179 though, you're paying for it. But make no mistake, this is the best investment in yourself you'll ever make - you deserve it.
5 of 15Doxy Extra Powerful Massage Wand Vibrator, £89.99
With 4.5 star reviews across the board and tons of Google search around the Doxy wand, this vibrator is proving popular. It has incredibly strong vibrations operated via large buttons for easy operation during play and an ergonomic body for complete control over pressure levels and angles.
6 of 15LELO ORA 3 Oral Pleasure Massager Aqua, £130
On the even steeper side, the Lelo Ora 2 is the worlds only oral sex stimulator. For £130, you can only hope it fulfils expectations, but as the winner of the Cannes Lions award, we don't doubt it will.
7 of 15Lovehoney Magic Wand Vibrator, £49.99
With 4.5 stars and over 1300 reviews, you know this one has to be good. The mains powered wand means even stronger vibrations, which you can tailor yourself by increasing speed with the wheel function. For £49.99, it's a sex toy draw necessity (if you don't have a sex toy draw are you even human?)
8 of 15Womanizer Pro 40, WAS £119, NOW £59
When this product launched, it caused quite the stir in the sex toy community. Taking away fears of over-stimulation and sensitivity loss, this toy doesn't actually touch your clitoris. Don't be fooled though, the suction and pressure waves do enough to give you your best orgasm yet. At £89, we'd bloody hope so.
9 of 15Lovehoney Love Egg, £12.99
A personal favourite, this Love Egg is the cheapest vibrator of the bunch but by far the most recommended. It's speed wheel means you can go from mild to intense in seconds. While it may not be the prettiest vibrator in the world, it's one I will forever stand by. The reviews speak for themselves, and the power will be the best surprise of all. Currently out of stock
10 of 15Womanizer Classic 2, £119
A must-have in any sex toy draw, the Womanizer Classic 2 is discreet, simple and powerful. The new version comes with a unique and brand-new Afterglow feature which provides a relaxing end to an orgasm when the clitoris is the most sensitive. By short pressing the power button, the Afterglow feature allows the toy to quickly switch back to the lowest intensity level to finish your climax in a more comfortable way. Honestly, they think of EVERYTHING. Currently sold out
11 of 15Bondara Jessica Rabbit, £12.99
Luckily for you, Bondara's best-selling toy is also our cheapest rabbit on offer. At £12.99, you can't really go wrong with this one. Targeted towards beginners, it will ease you into vibrators if you're inexperienced. There's no time like the present to give it a try...
12 of 15Thanks For Cumming, Wally, £70
Wally is a clitoral vacuum stimulator who will keep you cumming back for more. With eight settings there is something for everyone, but don't be fooled by its size, this toy packs a punch. This innovative waterproof vibrator replicates the sensation of oral sex. It does this by using suction to stimulate the whole clitoris leading to enhanced pleasure. Wally recharges fast so it can go all night, which makes it the perfect toy for every situation.
13 of 15Aura Vibe, £67.99
This vibrating 'personal massager' is perfect if you're looking for a more discreet option. The noise out of it is kept to an absolute minimum, even on the highest intensity setting (for which there are three, and seven vibration patterns).
14 of 15Womanizer Scarlet 3, £69
The Scarlet 3 packs the same clitoral stimulating punch as other Womanzier products, but in a smaller package. It fits in your palm nicely for easy placement, a perfect addition to solo or partner play for beginners... but make no mistake, the orgasm is expert level.Currently sold out
15 of 1512 Nights of Pleasure Advent Calendar, £171 (worth £310)
Ann Summers are ahead of the curve this Christmas, releasing their sex toy advent calendar 12 Days Of Self Love with over £300 worth of products. From accessories to spice up your sex life to their most-beloved vibrators (we can confirm the mini rampant rabbit is just as effective as the large version, oh yes), this is a gift your friends will be thanking you for for years...