Half of American adults use vibrators

Two recent studies conducted by IU researchers indicate half of all American adults ages 18 to 60 use vibrators on a regular basis.

Though the word “vibrator” is still considered taboo, 53 percent of women and 45 percent of men from the nationally representative samples report that they use vibrators.

Additionally, the studies establish a positive association between vibrator use and overall sexual health.

Researchers at the Center of Sexual Health Promotion in IU’s Health, Physical Education and Recreation led the two national surveys published in The Journal of Sexual Medicine.

Separate surveys financed by Church & Dwight Co. Inc., parent company of Trojan brand sexual health products, were given to more than 2,000 women and 1,000 men.
“The study affirms what many doctors and therapists have known for decades – that vibrator use is common, it’s linked to positive sexual function and it’s rarely associated with any side effects,” said Debby Herbenick, associate director of the Center for Sexual Health Promotion.

Women who use vibrators are significantly more likely to have yearly gynecological exams and possess higher libidos, according to the study.

A 1956 study by the Kinsey Institute reported that less than 1 percent of the U.S. population used vibrators. Investigators attribute the dramatic increase during the last half-century to widespread availability. Vibrators are now sold at Wal-Mart, CVS, on mainstream Internet sites and even at 7-Eleven stores.

Michael Reece, director of the Center for Sexual Health Promotion, said the importance of the study’s contribution is to better the understanding of the overall sexual-health behaviors of adults nationwide.

“The study about male vibrator use is additionally important because it shows that vibrator use is also common among men,” Reece said. “Also, both studies help us to further understand the way in which Americans consumers are turning to the marketplace for products to promote their sexual health, and that has important economic implications.”