(019) EXPERIENCE WITH VARIOUS GENITAL VIBRATORS: A QUALITATIVE STUDY
Authors: Alpeter L , Clarke B , Tully L , Iglesia C 
Published: June 2024

Introduction

Mainstream society and health professionals typically do not regard genital vibrators as medical devices. Vibrators have been shown to improve sexual satisfaction (Alexander et al., 2017). There are currently no studies that compare participants' preference, satisfaction of orgasm, and frequency of orgasms with multiple different styles of devices.

Objective

The primary outcome was to compare three different styles of genital vibrator devices via the level of satisfaction and reasons for satisfaction or dissatisfaction for the various devices. The secondary outcomes were to determine if there was a quantitative change in the Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI) scores or the Patient Global Impression of Improvement (PGI-I).

Methods

The study was a prospective observational design with mixed methods of qualitative and quantitative outcomes. Participants with female reproductive anatomy aged ≥18 that were sexually active with a partner or through self-stimulation and have achieved orgasm in the past were eligible. Participants completed the FSFI prior to undergoing the intervention. They then had six weeks to use the three devices (wand, dual pronged or clitoral suction device) at their own discretion. At the conclusion of the six weeks, they completed the FSFI and PGI-I. Participants then underwent an open and semi-structured interview via telephone. The information from these interviews was transcribed and analyzed using Dedoose software by two independent reviewers.

Results

Individuals with no self-reported sexual dysfunction aged 18-55 years old were recruited in January 2023. All completed both the pre- and post-intervention questionnaires. Nineteen participants completed the semi-structured interviews, one participant was lost to follow-up. Self-reported overall sexual satisfaction was improved in 90% of participants after introduction of the genital vibrators based on PGI-I (Figure 1). 55% of participants reported the suction clitoral stimulator device was their preferred vibrator, 35% preferred the wand device, and 10% preferred the dual pronged device. When comparing pre and post intervention FSFI there were no statistically significant differences in total FSFI scores nor any of the individual domains (27.15 vs. 28.25, p=0.104). Ease of use, enjoyment, comfort, intensity, partner use, change in orgasm, novelty, and battery/charge were commonly recurring themes during the interview. Table 1 demonstrates examples of quotes and frequency of mentions. There was no difference in number of times each vibrator was used based on self-report (p=0.875) (Figure 2).

Conclusions

The introduction of genital vibrators may lead to improved sexual satisfaction in individuals with no baseline sexual dysfunction. The majority (90%) of participants reported improvement in overall sexual satisfaction with the use of genital vibrators, with the suction clitoral stimulator device being the preferred style. Novelty, comfort, size, and intensity of vibrators were frequently addressed as important factors in improving the likelihood and quality of orgasm. Additionally, positive comments surrounding partner use were frequently addressed by participants, suggesting the importance of exploring vibrator use outside of masturbation alone. Use with a partner can lead to improved communication with the partner and a more satisfying sexual experience overall.

Disclosure

No.