A guide to using all different types of vibrators for maximum pleasure

• Vibrators come in many shapes, sizes, and levels of intensity, so it's important to experiment.
• To maximize your pleasure, start slow, use lube, clean it regularly, and keep an open mind.
• Vibrators can be used alone or with a partner to add something fun to your sex life.

A vibrator is a device that helps to provide sexual stimulation either alone or with a partner.

"Vibrators help us navigate our sexual hot spots more easily, and sometimes more efficiently. They often make having an orgasm easier, faster, and even more intense," says Sherry Ross, MD, an OB-GYN and women's health expert in Santa Monica, California, who co-hosts the show Lady Parts with Sarah Hyland.

Here's what you need to know about the different types of vibrators and how you can get started with using them.

Types of vibrators and how to use them safely

There are several different types of vibrators.

Many offer different speed and intensity settings, and some even offer different rhythms that you can control with a remote or an app on your phone.

Most vibrators can be used either solo or with a partner. Some are specifically made to be most enjoyed with a partner.

Types of vibrators:

Clitoral vibrators: These are external vibrators that are designed to stimulate the external body of the clitoris. They include wand vibrators, bullet vibrators, and even direct clitoral stimulators, which use air pressure to mimic the suction of oral sex. The clitoris has thousands of nerve endings, making it an extremely sensitive organ, so start out slow and see what intensity works for you. If you're exceptionally sensitive, you can try keeping your underwear on to absorb some of the intensity. Since cotton underwear may cause chafing, try silk or satin underwear.

Internal vibrators (or G-spot vibrators): The G-spot is an erogenous zone located roughly one or two inches inside the vagina, on the front wall (toward the belly button). It can be difficult to reach because of the way it's positioned, so G-spot vibrators are internal vibrators that are typically designed with a slight curve to help you target this area. If you think you might require lubricant, check the instructions that accompany the device to see which types of lubricant are compatible with it; water-based options usually work best with most rubber and silicon devices.

Combination vibrators: Combination vibrators are designed to simultaneously stimulate a vagina internally and a vulva externally. Rabbit vibrators are a common type of combination vibrator; they often look like rabbits because they have one prong to stimulate the clitoris and another to stimulate the G-spot. You might have to experiment with different sizes and positions, to ensure that you're able to hit both spots simultaneously.

Anal vibrators: Anal vibrators are internal vibrators designed with a wide or flared base, so that they don't go too far inside and to keep the entire toy from entering your colon, which can be harmful and often requires a doctor visit for removal. Anal vibrators come in all shapes and sizes. Some merely vibrate while others use some pretty cool technology to thump as if mimicking the motion of penetration.

Tip: You can choose to do an enema before inserting an anal toy if you want to avoid a mess, or use the vibrator only after you've had a bowel movement. You may also want to keep towels or wipes handy, just in case. Lubrication is recommended before you attempt inserting the vibrator, since the anus doesn't produce its own fluid. The same vibrator shouldn't be used on a vagina or in a mouth unless it has been cleaned thoroughly, as that can lead to bacterial or yeast infections.

Prostate vibrators: The prostate is a small internal gland located between the penis and the rectum. Prostate stimulation is often very intense for folks. It can be stimulated via the anus, so prostate vibrators often need to be inserted anally. Like G-spot vibrators, prostate vibrators are also curved, to help you target the prostate gland. You should follow the same care and precautionary measures as you would with an anal vibrator.

Penis vibrators: Penis vibrators include vibrating penis rings and penis head vibrators. Try to use pliable silicone ones since they are flexible and easy to take off. Metal or plastic ones on the other hand could feel constricting or get stuck and require surgery to be removed. If you do get stuck, try applying ice, or use lotion or soap to try and slip it off. There are also vibrating penis sleeves that allow for full penis vibration along with manual stroking or sucking sensations. Some sleeves require full erections while others do not.

How to maximize your pleasure when using a vibrator

These are some tips to keep in mind, to help ensure that your experience is safe, comfortable and pleasurable. "You want to make sure the vibrator does not cause any trauma to any of your body parts," says Ross.

Tips for using a vibrator for the first time

• Start slow: "Find a vibrator that looks easy to use and is not too complicated," says Ross. A wand vibrator might be an easy place to start. Since vibrators can deliver intense stimulation, start slowly and progress gradually, giving your body time to adjust.
• Use lube: Whether you're by yourself, or with a partner, use lubricant and try foreplay to help prepare your body, especially before you use an internal vibrator, to avoid getting hurt.
• Explore different things: "Experiment and explore what suits your needs the best when selecting a vibrator. There are many options out there so read the purchaser's reviews, if possible, so you can get a head start," says Ross. Be patient - even if one kind doesn't work for you, it doesn't mean that others won't.
• Opt for a non-porous material: Avoid vibrators that are made of absorbent, spongy, or porous materials since they trap dirt and bacteria, increasing the risk of yeast, bacterial, or urinary tract infections, says Ross. She recommends opting for vibrators made of high-quality non-porous materials, to minimize your chances of an infection. High-quality silicone toys or glass or metal toys might be a good place to start.
• Keep it clean: "Always wash your vibrator with warm water and soap after and in between using it," says Ross. Since vibrators are electronic devices, it may not be safe to immerse them completely in water; read the instructions accompanying your device for detailed cleaning instructions. Some toys even come with their own cleaning solutions!
• Use waterproof vibrators in the shower: Avoid taking a vibrator into the bath or shower with you unless you're absolutely sure it's waterproof. If the packaging doesn't say anything about it being waterproof, assume it isn't, to be on the safer side.

Insider's takeaway

If you're interested in up-ing your masturbation game or you want to add something extra to your sex-life, a vibrator can be a great tool for you and your partner. There are several types of vibrators for you to choose from, depending on your preferences and sexual needs.

"Embrace your sexuality and enjoy using whatever type of sex toy turns you on," says Ross.

Important: Visit a sex positive sex toy store or website for recommendations and ideas for use like non profit The Pleasure Project.

If you're using one for the first time, pick an easy-to-use one, made of a non-porous material, and start slowly, exploring what works best for your body. Use lubricant, if you think you might need it, and make it a point to wash the vibrator with soap and water after each use.