Sexuality & Sexual Health: Miscellaneous / Question
Published: January 6, 2004
Dear TeenHealthFX,
I am interested in using a sex toy like a vibrator or a dildo to masturbate with. But I heard from friends that using them can pop the cherry or cause harm to your body. I didn't actually tell them I was going to use it for myself but we sort of got into one of those conversations and I happened to mention a vibrator to her and she told me that it could actually harm your body very badly, so I am writing to you TeenHealthFX because I would like some information on vibrators and stuff that wont actually hurt you and all. I am 17 years old and a female if that makes any difference.
Signed: Interested In Using Sex Toys
Dear Interested In Using Sex Toys,
It is possible, though unlikely, that using a vibrator can "pop your cherry," (meaning break your hymen) if you insert the vibrator into your vagina. However, lots of women prefer to use vibrators to stimulate the area around the vagina, especially the clitoris, and do not insert them at all.
The only risk in using a vibrator is that if you do not keep it clean, it might cause an infection. However, this is very easy to avoid. Wash your vibrator with hot water and soap after every use and store it in a clean place. Other than that, vibrators are a safe way to pleasure yourself.
Signed: TeenHealthFX
Each year, half of all HIV infections are among people under the age of 25.
