YNOT – E.L. James’ best-selling erotic novel Fifty Shades of Grey and its sequels have changed the complexion of sexual conversation in the U.S. With the popularity of so-called “mommy porn,” people are beginning to re-evaluate what is considered “normal” sexual behavior. Minds — and other body parts — have expanded, at least a little, and probably will continue to do so as other erotica authors attempt to gain their own notoriety by pushing the envelope just a bit further.

Vibrators now appear on shelves at local pharmacies and big-box stores coast to coast, and reportedly sales of spicier accoutrements have soared as Middle America embraces a more relaxed and sex-positive attitude. According to the sexuality and novelty industry experts at Good Vibrations, though, much remains to be done to free the American mainstream from the shackles of repression.

As Good Vibrations prepares to celebrate its 36th anniversary in March, Executive Vice President Jackie Strano looked back on a long and winding road to the hard-won sexual freedoms we take for granted today.

“We are always grateful for the cultural catalysts that move the sexual conversation forward, and Fifty Shades has been a great ‘gateway’ book to get more people talking about sexual freedom and pleasure,” she said. “Good Vibrations has worked long and hard to normalize the use of vibrators and provide quality products and trusted sex education in a warm, welcoming atmosphere. Accessible and trusted information is more important than ever.”

According to Strano, Fifty Shades of Grey, which documents the fictional relationship between a dominant billionaire and a submissive employee who “finds herself” amid their tumultuous sexual relationship, has given women permission to discuss, explore and enjoy bondage and role playing.

“Though in some quarters ‘Fifty Shades fatigue’ is settling in, according to sales trends America is still breathless in its rush to explore kink now that it has been sanctioned by popular culture,” Strano said. “Fifty Shades of Grey-inspired sex toys have appeared everywhere from Oprah to the recent Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas. Good Vibrations’ own Mommy Playdates reveal an encouraging interest in women claiming their pleasure and exploring previously shrouded subjects with enthusiasm.”

In the rush to embrace new erotic territory, Good Vibrations Staff Sexologist and author of Exhibitionism for the Shy, Dr. Carol Queen, hastened to add that education and safety techniques must be part of the fun.

“We are delighted that this book has started a national conversation in what was formerly taboo territory, and that women are feeling permission to explore,” Queen said. “But before you go about tying someone up or spanking them, it’s crucial to know some basic safety tips and kinky protocol, like safe words. Good Vibrations is happy to offer education, safety tips and fun things to try in one’s erotic journey.”

Workshops, books, props and more are available at GoodVibes.com. The company’s affiliate program pays 15-25 percent commissions for sales referrals.