The terms ‘dildo’ and ‘dong’ are sometimes used interchangeably but they are actually different types of sex toys.

The main difference is that a dildo has a distinct base, but a dong does not. The base can resemble testicles or be flared so the dildo can be mounted to a surface or attached to other sex toys, such as a harness or sex machine.

Strictly speaking, neither dildos nor dongs vibrate. Those that do can also be considered vibrators.

Vibrators contain an electric or battery powered motor that produces vibrations.

When the power is turned, the motor wobbles as it spins to create vibrations you can deliver to various parts of the body for soothing massage or erotic pleasure.

The vibrations can be high-powered or low-powered, buzzy or rumbly, with each combination of options delivering different sensations.

Generally, battery powered vibrators are less powerful than electric powered vibrators. Electric powered vibrators tend to have stronger motors which use more power.

While you don't have to worry about any batteries running out with electric powered vibrators, they do have to be plugged in.

By contrast, battery powered vibrators are more practical for travel and use in different scenarios. Some models even use batteries that are rechargeable via USB cable or otherwise for added convenience. 

Vibrators come in different styles because people like to use them in different ways.

For example, a clitoral vibrator is designed to stimulate the clitoris, a very sensitive area above and outside the vagina. Meanwhile, a g-spot vibrator is ideal for targeting the g-spot, a sensitive area about 2.5 to three inches inside the vagina towards the belly button.

Some vibrators even combine two or more different styles. For example, rabbit vibrators are designed to encourage blended (external and internal) orgasms with a clitoral stimulator attached to the shaft.

When choosing a vibrator, go for a style that delivers the type of stimulation that will bring you the most pleasure, whether it's external, vaginal, anal or a combination.

As with most electronic devices, you get what you pay for when it comes to vibrators.

Depending on a vibrator's quality, and how you use and care for it, a vibrator can last anywhere from months to years. Many come with a warranty for peace of mind.

Vibrators featuring high quality materials and components that have been used and cared for as directed by the manufacturer tend to last longer so it's worth spending a little extra to get the best device you can afford.

The main difference between clitoral and vaginal orgasms is that the former is achieved externally whereas the latter involves penetration.

Clitoral orgasms are achieved by stimulating the clitoris, a small organ with nerve endings at the top of the vulva. These orgasms are often experienced as a tingly sensation on the skin and can usually be created by rubbing the clitoris with the fingers, palm or tongue using back and forth or circular movements.

Vaginal orgasms occur deeper in the body than clitoral orgasms and can take longer to achieve. They can be felt by the partner or against the sex toy penetrating the vagina because the vaginal walls pulse. To achieve vaginal orgasms, try using fingers or a toy to stimulate the g-spot: make a 'come hither' motion about 2.5 to three inches inside the vagina towards the belly button instead of thrusting in and out. 

Yes! In women, anal orgasms happen through indirect stimulation of the g-spot and the a-spot, which is further down through the shared wall between the vagina and rectum.

In men, anal orgasms occur through stimulation of the prostate gland or 'p-spot'. It's about three to four inches from the start of the anal canal, behind and above the deepest part of the penis and right under the bladder.

Vibrators stimulate sensitive anal nerve endings, creating intense pleasure in both men and women.

If you're intending to use a vibrator anally, ensure it is designed for this purpose, featuring a flared base, secure handle or retrieval ring to prevent it from getting sucked inside you. Insert your toy when your anal muscles are relaxed, using plenty of compatible lubricant.

Absolutely! Using a vibrator during sexual intercourse can increase intimacy, mutual pleasure and the likelihood of orgasm, especially for those who require more stimulation than penetration alone.

There are many types of vibrators that can be used during intercourse and in countless ways.

Bullets and wearable finger vibrators are ideal for delivering clitoral stimulation, as are vibrating cock rings. Also a type of couple's rings, vibrating cock rings have the added advantages of being hands-free and creating harder, longer lasting erections by restricting blood flow to the penis.

There are even vibrators designed specifically for women to wear during intercourse. The most popular styles have a U-shape, with one end inserted into the vagina and the other placed over the clitoris. This clever design can deliver hands-free clitoral and, in some cases, g-spot stimulation too.

It is generally considered safe to use a vibrator during pregnancy. If your doctor has given you the green light for sexual intercourse, then it's likely that you can use a vibrator.

For individual medical advice, consult an appropriate health professional.

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That depends on several factors.

If your vibrator is made from porous materials (such as jelly rubber or TPR/TPE plastic), it can trap hard-to-remove dirt or bacteria. If a porous vibrator is used by someone with a bacterial, yeast or sexually transmitted infection, the outbreak can spread to another user or re-contaminate the original person. Placing a new condom on the vibrator each time it is used can offer limited protection.

If you're sharing a vibrator made from non-porous materials (such as high quality silicone), you can also use it with a fresh condom for safety. Alternatively, clean it with warm water and mild soap or sex toy cleaner. This will help you avoid transferring bacteria from one partner to the other. 

The best place to store a vibrator is in a safe, cool, dry and dark place.

For dust protection, place your sex toy in a fabric pouch, closed box or drawer.

Before storing your vibrator, clean according to the manufacturer's directions. This generally involves rinsing it with warm water and mild soap or applying a sex toy cleaner. Let your vibrator dry naturally or gently pat with a lint-free cloth, ensuring it is completely dry before storing.

Some new sex toys can have an unusual smell because of the materials used to make it.

This does not necessarily mean that your toy is unsafe and it is likely to lessen over time. To help reduce the any smell, rinse your toy with warm water and mild soap or apply a sex toy cleaner. Let your toy dry naturally or pat with a lint-free cloth before use or storage.

Your first sex toy should be one you are comfortable with. It should look and feel good to you, and be designed to deliver the type of stimulation you are seeking.

The most popular sex toys for first-time users are simple vibrators, such as bullets for external stimulation or insertable, classic vibrators, while those seeking non-vibrating options tend to go for dongs or dildos.

Generally, beginners are recommended to start with small, easy to handle toys with basic features and progress to larger sizes and more complex functions.

Keep your early sex toy adventures simple.