Should We Associate Sex Toys with Pornography — or Are They More About Physical and Mental Health?
When people think of sex toys, they often picture the world of pornography. But is that really fair? Or are sex toys, in fact, tools for well-being, self-discovery, and even health? As someone passionate about positive sexuality and semi-pro in the sex toy space, I’d like to explore this topic with empathy and nuance.
Pornography and Sex Toys: A Narrow Association
Yes, sex toys frequently appear in pornographic films. This visibility boosts their popularity but also creates stereotypes — that they’re only for extreme practices or replicating fantasy scenarios. Yet, the reality is much broader.
A study published in The Journal of Sex Research (Herbenick et al., 2013) found that most people use sex toys primarily for personal pleasure and partnered intimacy, not because of direct influence from pornography. Users are mainly looking to understand their bodies better and enhance their intimate experiences.
Reference:
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Herbenick, D., Reece, M., Sanders, S. A., Dodge, B., Ghassemi, A., & Fortenberry, J. D. (2013). Prevalence and characteristics of vibrator use by women in the United States: Results from a nationally representative study. The Journal of Sex Research, 50(2), 123–132. https://doi.org/10.1080/00224499.2011.628132
Sex Toys as Tools for Sexual and Mental Health
Less known is the therapeutic role sex toys can play. For example:
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Vibrators are sometimes recommended by sex therapists to address anorgasmia (difficulty reaching orgasm) or certain types of pelvic pain.
Reference:-
Brotto, L. A., & Basson, R. (2014). Group mindfulness-based therapy significantly improves sexual desire in women. Behavior Research and Therapy, 57, 43–54. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.brat.2014.04.001
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Masturbation, with or without sex toys, can help reduce stress and improve sleep quality.
Reference:-
Prause, N., & Pfaus, J. G. (2015). Viewing sexual stimuli associated with greater sexual responsiveness, not erectile dysfunction. Sexual Medicine, 3(2), 90–98. https://doi.org/10.1002/sm2.58
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For older adults or those recovering from medical treatments (such as after cancer), using sex toys can support sexual rehabilitation and help maintain pleasure.
Reference:-
American Cancer Society. (2021). Sex and the adult female with cancer. Retrieved from https://www.cancer.org/treatment/treatments-and-side-effects/physical-side-effects/fertility-and-sexual-side-effects/sexuality-for-women-with-cancer.html
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A Positive and Compassionate Practice
Associating sex toys solely with pornography misses their essential role: they are allies in well-being. Of course, there’s nothing wrong with using them in an erotic, porn-inspired context. But they’re also much more: they are instruments for exploration, self-confidence, and sometimes even healing.
Talking about them openly and without shame contributes to a healthier, more balanced view of sexuality.
Conclusion
No, sex toys are not just part of the pornography world. They are primarily what you make of them: companions for your pleasure, physical and mental health, and intimate growth.
Let’s take care of ourselves — with kindness and curiosity
Ressources :
- American Cancer Society – Sexuality for Women with Cancer
- The Journal of Sex Research
- Planned Parenthood – Masturbation and Sexual Health
- NHS UK – Sex and Relationships