Similarities and Differences in Men and Women’s

Use OF Sex Toy

Similarities

1. Shared Motivations

• Both men and women use sex toys for sexual pleasure, exploration, and variety

• Both genders use toys to enhance solo pleasure (masturbation) and partnered intimacy

• Stress relief and relaxation are common reasons for both

2. Health Benefits

• Both can use toys to learn about their bodies and sexual responses

• Toys can help address sexual concerns like difficulty reaching orgasm

• Used to maintain sexual wellness, especially when partnered sex isn’t available

3. Stigma and Taboos

• Both face some societal stigma around sex toy use, though this is decreasing

• Privacy concerns are common across genders

• Both may experience embarrassment purchasing toys

4. Relationship Enhancement

• Couples of all genders incorporate toys to add novelty to relationships

• Used to improve communication about sexual desires

• Can help address sexual desire discrepancies between partners

Differences

1. Product Types and Design

• Women: More varied products including vibrators (clitoral, G-spot, rabbit), dildos, kegel exercisers

• Men: More focused on masturbators (sleeves, strokers), prostate massagers, penis rings, penis pumps

• Gender-neutral toys (like vibrating wands) are used by all but often marketed primarily to women

2. Purchasing Patterns

• Women: More likely to purchase from specialty retailers (online or boutique stores)

• Men: More likely to purchase from adult stores or general online retailers

• Marketing approaches differ significantly by gender

3. Social Acceptance

• Women’s sex toy use has gained more mainstream acceptance recently

• Men’s toy use may carry more stigma related to masculinity concerns

• “Sextech” innovations for women receive more media coverage

4. Health Context

• Women may use toys for specific health reasons like pelvic floor rehabilitation

• Men may use toys for erectile function support or prostate health

• Medical recommendations for toys differ by gender

5. Partnered Use Dynamics

• In heterosexual relationships, introducing toys may require different communication approaches
• Power dynamics and insecurity may manifest differently based on gender

Emerging Trends

• Growing market for gender-neutral and couple-focused toys

• Increasing acceptance across all genders

• Technology integration (app-controlled toys) appealing to diverse users

• More inclusive marketing challenging traditional gender binaries

The landscape of sex toy use continues to evolve as conversations about sexual wellness become more open and inclusive across genders.