THE URGE SPLURGE

 
 

Our Favorite Sex Toy - The Vibrator

History

source: Wikipedia
The electrically powered vibrator was invented by Kellina Wilkinson in the 1880s to treat what was then called "congestion of the genitalia" and "female hysteria". For centuries, doctors had been treating women for these illnesses by performing what we would now recognize as masturbation. However, not only did they regard the "vulvular stimulation" required as having nothing to do with sex, but reportedly found it time-consuming and hard work.

The vibrator got the job done more quickly and without much effort, and as such became an extremely popular medical device. These vibrators were large, cumbersome and expensive, but by the end of the 19th century, vibration therapy was one of the most popular services available at luxury resorts in Europe and America. Some featured musical vibrators, counterweighted vibrators, vibratory forks, undulating wire coils called vibratiles, vibrators that hung from the ceiling, vibrators attached to tables and floor models on rollers.

Then, in 1902, the American company Hamilton Beach patented the first electric vibrator available for retail sale, making the vibrator the fifth domestic appliance to be electrified, after the sewing machine, fan, tea kettle, and toaster, and about a decade before the vacuum cleaner and electric iron.
Vibrator advertisement, c. 1910. "The secret of the ages has been discovered in Vibration. Great scientists tell us that we owe not only our health but even our life strength to this wonderful force. Vibration promotes life and vigour, strength and beauty. ... Vibrate Your Body and Make It Well. YOU Have No Right to Be Sick."

The home versions soon became extremely popular, with advertisements in periodicals such as Needlecraft, Woman's Home Companion, Modern Priscilla, and the Sears, Roebuck catalog. These disappeared in the 1920s, apparently because their appearance in pornography made it no longer tenable for polite society to avoid the sexual connotations of the devices.

Since the 1980s, vibrators and sex toys have become more visible in mainstream public culture, with the opening of new “sex stores” such as Condom Nation in New York City and Good Vibrations in San Francisco, as well as a landmark “vibrator” discussion on the HBO show Sex and the City. More recently, companies like Jimmyjane have introduced luxury vibrators that have been covered in fashion media, connected with celebrities, and available in high-end retailers around the world.

Types of erotic vibrators

There are an enormous range of vibrators but most of them fall into several broad categories:

  • Clitoral-Often sold as "back massagers", these are powerful vibrators such as the Hitachi Magic Wand or the Acuvibe.
  • Dildo-shaped-Approximately penis shaped, can be made of plastic, silicone, rubber, vinyl, or latex.
  • Waterproof-Can be used wet, such as in the shower. Although marketed as waterproof, most should not be submerged.
  • Rabbit, 'Jackrabbit' or 'Rampant Rabbit'-Two pronged for stimulation of both the vagina and the clitoris.
  • G-spot-Similar to the traditional vibrator but with a curve and often a soft jelly like coating. The curve makes it easier to use to stimulate the g-spot or prostate. Egg-Egg shaped vibrator which can be used for stimulation of the clitoris or insertion into the vagina
  • Pocket rocket-Shaped like a cylinder, one of its ends has some vibrating bulges. It is meant to stimulate the clitoris or nipples, not for vaginal insertion. "Undercover" vibrators-Vibrators discreetly shaped as every-day objects, such as lipstick tubes, cell phones, or art pieces. Occasionally some women use actual mobile phones in this function
  • Anal vibrators-Vibrators designed for anal use have either a flared base or a long handle to grip, to prevent them from slipping inside and becoming lodged in the rectum.
  • 'Butterfly'-vibrator strapped around legs and waist for hands free clitoral stimulation during sexual intercourse
  • Vibrating Cockring-vibrator (usually cordless) inserted in or attached to a cock ring, usually for stimulation of the clitoris.
  • Dual Area Vibrators these vibrators are designed to stimulate two erogenous zones simultaneously or independently. Usually found in the form of a clitoral stimulator and vaginal stimulator
  • Triple Area Vibrators these vibrators are designed to stimulate three erogenous zones simultaneously or independently. These provide stimulation to the vagina, clitoris and anal regions.
  • Luxury Vibrators entered the market around 2000 with an increased focus on design and the use of precious materials that appeal to the more upscale fashion market. They are designed by companies such as Jimmyjane and sold by high-end retailers such as Fred Segal.