Sexual toys: explore, discover and connect differently
Optimize your pleasure with sex toys
Once surrounded by taboos, sex toys are now part of a fulfilling intimate life. Whether you are solo or in a relationship, they can become true allies to help you understand your body, expand your sexual practices and enhance your pleasure.
With all the types of toys available—air pulsation, glass, silicone, vibrating, textured, solo or couple—it's easy to feel a bit lost when choosing. The goal is not to know everything, but to find what matches your desires, your rhythm and your curiosity.
This article guides you to understand what sex toys are for, how to choose the right one for you, and how to integrate them comfortably into your intimate life.
Breaking the ice: sex toys, pleasure without taboo
There is absolutely no shame in owning a sex toy… or several! These accessories are above all tools for discovery and exploration. They help you understand your body, explore new sensations and cultivate a more conscious, fulfilled and diverse sexuality. A sex toy becomes a companion that helps you reconnect with your desires, your body and your limits, without judgment and at your own pace.
Exploring pleasure solo
Discovering your body, desires and limits
Solo pleasure is often the first step toward a confident, healthy and fulfilling sex life. Taking the time to explore your body means listening to your sensations, recognizing what feels good and understanding your limits. It is also a beautiful way to reconnect with yourself before sharing this intimacy with someone else. Sex toys can support this process by offering a soft, curious and pressure-free way to explore.
By trying different types of stimulation (vibrations, pulsations, textures, intensities), you can identify what you like and what you like less. Every body is different, and that’s exactly what makes exploration so interesting.
How to choose your first toy
With so much variety in stores and online, it’s normal not to know where to start. Here are a few simple guidelines:
- Desired type of stimulation: external (clitoral, for example), internal (vaginal, anal), or mixed.
- Material: choose toys made of medical-grade silicone or safe glass.
- Intensity: some prefer gentle vibrations, while others like stronger stimulation.
- Maintenance: choose a toy that is easy to clean and always use the proper lubricant (water-based for silicone). For help choosing the right lubricant, see our article on the subject!
And most importantly: go at your own pace. Pleasure isn’t measured by how intense the toy is, but by what you feel.
Introducing a sex toy into a relationship
Talking openly and without pressure
Bringing up sex toys with your partner can feel intimidating, but communication is key. Choose a calm moment, outside the bedroom, to talk without pressure.
You can simply ask:
“How do you feel about sex toys? Have you ever tried one?”
The idea is to open the conversation with curiosity and respect, without pushing. And above all, remember that the toy doesn’t replace anyone, it enhances the relationship; it doesn’t threaten it.
Tone and approach
Present the idea as something to explore together:
“I’d love for us to discover new sensations, just to see what we both enjoy.”
This removes any sense of competition.
It may also be helpful to start with a neutral toy (something that doesn’t resemble a body part): a vibrating ring, an external stimulator or a remote-controlled toy can be fun and non-intimidating options.
Pro tip
If your partner seems hesitant, create a special experience tailored to their pleasure, using a toy chosen specifically for them. A positive experience can completely change their perception and open the door to more playful and connected exploration as a couple.
The concrete benefits of sex toys
Sex toys can help you:
- better understand your anatomy and erogenous zones;
- diversify pleasure (some sensations cannot be achieved without them);
- spark curiosity and desire;
- improve communication within the couple.
They add a touch of playfulness, imagination and novelty, three essential ingredients of a vibrant and fulfilling sex life.
Practical advice: safety and hygiene
Hygiene and maintenance
- Always clean your toy before and after use with a mild or dedicated cleanser.
- Let it dry completely before storing.
- Do not share a toy without proper protection, especially for vaginal or anal use.
- Store it in a clean, dry place away from heat and dust.
Lubricants
- Silicone toys: use water-based lubricants.
- Glass or metal toys: silicone lubricants may be used.
A good lubricant improves safety and significantly increases pleasure.
Where to buy
Choose specialized stores or reputable pharmacies, such as certain Familiprix locations. There, you’ll find certified products that are safe and body-friendly.
In conclusion…
Sex toys are not reserved for any particular type of person, they can transform your relationship with pleasure, whether you are alone or partnered.
They allow you to learn, experiment, communicate and above all appreciate the richness of sensations available. And ultimately, exploring your pleasure means learning to know yourself better, so you can feel fulfilled and free in a part of your life that fully deserves your attention!
Article written in collaboration with Au lit avec Anne-Marie