Sex toys are surrounded by myths - but not the fun kind. Despite being mainstream bedroom staples recommended by doctors and therapists, there’s plenty of misinformation floating around about who should (and shouldn’t) be enjoying them. Whether you’re single, partnered, curious, or experienced, sex toys offer a fun, exciting way to boost your bedroom adventures, increase intimacy, and discover exactly what makes you tick. Ready to clear things up once and for all? Here are 8 common sex toy misconceptions that are long overdue for retirement.
1. “Sex toys are only for people who are single."
Many people assume sex toys are a substitute for a partner, so naturally, only single people have them and use them. But they’re used by singles and couples alike to intensify intimacy, explore new sensations, or spice things up with novelty. Studies show a significant portion of couples incorporate sex toys into their sex lives - as a shared adventure, not a replacement, and sexual satisfaction scores increase as a result.
2. "Sex toys will replace the need for an intimate partner."
This myth ties into insecurity – some people worry that sex toys will “replace” them. However, sex toys can’t replace human connection, spontaneity, or physical human touch. Yes, sex toys can provide pleasure, but let's not truncate how important intimacy is to sexual pleasure. A sex toy can’t replace the many things that humans provide alongside pleasure, such as human connection and intimacy. A sex toy is an accessory, not a rival in bed.
3. “Sex toys are for perverts.”
This misconception is fueled by the stigma around seeking pleasure. And yes, pleasure is a big reason people use sex toys, but the pursuit of pleasure isn’t perverse - it’s universally human. Sex toys are a normal, healthy part of many people's sex lives, recommended by doctors and therapists. People use sex toys for all sorts of reasons, from exploring their bodies to figuring out what feels good. For couples, sex toys can add fun, novelty, and extra stimulation during sex. Vibrators like the bendable Crescendo 2 can amplify sexual pleasure by providing extra stimulation to the clitoris during sex to help close the orgasm gap. That’s not perverse; that’s considerate.
4. "Sex toys are only for women."
While vibrators have historically targeted women, there’s a huge market for male sex toys like prostate vibrators, cock rings, male vibrators, masturbating sleeves, and more. The industry’s evolved to acknowledge that pleasure isn’t gendered.
5. “Sex toys are only good for pleasure.”
Yes, many sex toys are designed for pleasure; no surprise there. But let’s not be reductive about the benefits of pleasure. And - sex toys aren’t just for fun. Some sex toys can also offer real health benefits. For example, Tenuto 2 is an FDA-registered medical vibrator that’s clinically proven to help with erectile dysfunction. Even beyond specific medical needs, sex toys like Kegel balls provide dual benefits of pleasure combined with strengthened pelvic floor muscles. And prostate massagers? Molto is a doctor-designed prostate vibrator that's clinically shown to relieve prostatitis and improve prostate health by reducing inflammation and discomfort. Turns out pleasure can be therapeutic, too.
6. “Using sex toys means something’s wrong with your sex life.”
This myth comes from the stigmatized fear that bringing sex toys into the bedroom means you’re trying to fix something that’s broken. But the reality is that using sex toys doesn’t mean there’s anything wrong with your sex life. People use sex toys for all sorts of reasons, from exploring new sensations to keeping intimacy fresh and exciting. And even if you are dealing with something specific - like erection issues or the orgasm gap - having a stimulating solution like Tenuto 2 is a positive step, not something to feel embarrassed about. Sex toys complement your sex life, enhancing pleasure and intimacy whether you have specific needs or simply want to mix things up.
7. "Sex toys will desensitize you."
The fear that sex toys (especially vibrators) desensitize the clitoris or vagina is overstated. No research supports this myth. In fact, there are studies that report the opposite. A 2009 study published in The Journal of Sexual Medicine, shows no evidence of physical addiction or permanent desensitization. Temporary adjustment to intense stimulation can happen, but it’s a far cry from desensitizing or ruining “natural” pleasure.
8. “Sex toys are unsafe or dangerous.”
Some people worry that sex toys are inherently risky or dangerous to use. While poorly made sex toys could pose problems (think infections from porous materials), reputable sex toys made from body-safe materials, like medical-grade silicone, glass, or stainless steel, are perfectly safe to use when properly cared for. Wash them regularly and properly, store them correctly, and they’ll provide only pleasure in return.
Takeaway
Now that you've had a secondary education, dispelling the myths around sex toys that are anything but pleasurable, you can confidently explore how sex toys can transform your sex life (for the better). Single or partnered, new or experienced, you've learned that sex toys can boost satisfaction, improve sexual wellness, and strengthen your connection. Ready to put your newfound knowledge into practice? Here’s exactly how to use a vibrator during sex with a partner.
