The basics of using strap-ons
According to a 2017 poll conducted by Statista, strap-ons are among the top 10 sex toys for people above the age of 18.
If you’ve ever used one, you’ll understand the hype. Strap-ons are a fun option to engage in penetrative sex that can be used by anyone regardless of their anatomy. If you’re unfamiliar, strap-ons include a harness and a non-vibrating penis-shaped silicone dildo that can be inserted anally or vaginally.
There are generally two types of harnesses: underwear style and adjustable. Use is based on personal preference and dependent on what you’ll feel most comfortable wearing. Ahead, find five tips that will help you understand what you need to know before trying out a strap-on.
Talk about it.
It’s important to have a conversation with your partner ahead of time so you can discuss curiosities and boundaries and decide who will wear and who will receive. We suggest planning one night of the week to discuss how your sex life is going. During this time, you can shop for a harness together, discuss dildo size or simply create a space for each other’s curiosities and plan to try new things together.
Get comfortable.
Once you’ve found the right harness, spend some time wearing it alone. It might feel silly at first, but look at yourself in the mirror. It’ll help you get used to the feeling, and it might even boost your self-confidence.
Ease into it.
You shouldn’t rush into any sexual activity, especially with strap-on play. It requires constant communication, patience and close attention from both the wearer and the receiver. Take your time during foreplay. As the wearer, you can ask your partner to perform oral or a hand job on the dildo as a form of foreplay.
The wetter the better.
Penetrative sex can suddenly get not so sexy if you don’t have enough lube. Don’t feel shy to reapply if things get a little dry. To avoid possible irritation from penetration, try pairing a condom with a water-based or aloe-vera based lubricant, like Bloomi’s Smooth Water-Based Lubricant, on both the dildo and the receiver. During play time, ask how things are feeling, try new positions or take a break.
Aftercare.
A surge of hormones and brain chemicals are released post-play time and during an orgasm, which might leave you feeling vulnerable. Check in with each other and figure out what you need. Whether that’s cuddling, a full-body massage with Bloomi Massage Oil or clean up with Bloomi’s Cleanse Intimate Skin Foaming Wash, make sure to communicate your needs.