SAN FRANCISCO – The number-one priority for consumers when they contemplate purchasing a vibrator is not price, although affordability is important. Instead, consumers seek body-safe materials.
The statistic was among several sex shop Good Vibrations discovered in a survey conducted in May, during International Masturbation Month.
Also in the mix:
Thirty percent of respondents learned how to use vibrators by watching porn.
Almost 70 percent indicated they prefer vibes that offer clitoral stimulation.
More than 50 percent prefer a wand-type vibe.
Sixty percent use a vibrator both alone and with a partner.
Ninety-three percent said they prefer using their vibrator(s) in bed.
More than 60 percent said they use vibes during sex with a partner.
More than 40 percent said they enjoy their partner wielding the vibe.
Eighteen percent prefer vibrating cock ring-style vibes.
Thirty-five percent prefer G-spot stimulation over other types of contact.
Good Vibrations founded International Masturbation Month in 1995 amid the controversy surrounding the firing of former U.S. Surgeon General Joycelyn Elders. The first African-American surgeon general evoked conservative wrath when she said discussion of masturbation might have a place in sex education curricula.
Realizing one simple, sensible mention of solo pleasuring cost a prominent, respected health professional her job convinced the Good Vibrations staff the most basic and accessible form of sex needed a serious image boost. The concept of a month devoted to candid discussions about self-pleasure struck a chord with progressive consumers, and Masturbation Month became a tradition in the sex-positive community.
“We have been talking to people about sex for 40 years, and we know a thing or two about vibrators,” said Jackie Rednour-Bruckman, Good Vibrations’ executive vice president. “Pleasure should be celebrated, and we invite everyone to stop by our stores and see what all the fun is about.”
