The History of Sex Toys

The history of sex toys goes back a lot further than you might think…

A 28,000 year old stone phallus found in Germany

For thousands of years people have been coming up with creative ways to enhance their sex lives. The oldest “sex toy” on record was found in Germany and is estimated to be around 28,000 years old. Of course, the toys our ancestors used would not sound like much fun to present day humans, as they were often made from such alluring materials as stone and dried animal dung, but nonetheless, sexual health and pleasure have been important parts of human life for millennia. The ancient Greeks used objects called “olisbos” which were intended to meet wives’ needs while their husbands were away. Cleopatra herself was rumored to have invented the first vibrator when she requested a hollowed out gourd filled with bees.

A Victorian era hand crank massager used to treat hysteria

Sex toys also have a long history of being used for medicinal purposes. Beginning in the 19th century, physicians would use devices to induce orgasms in women to treat symptoms of “female hysteria.” At the time, it was not accepted that women were sexual beings, as that would have gone against conventional notions of femininity. Women who were most likely just experiencing sexual frustration were instead labeled hysterical. It was not even believed that women could experience orgasm, so women’s induced orgasms were referred to by doctors as “paroxysms.” The practice dates back to the 13^th century, but it became quite lucrative for physicians in the Victorian era. Thankfully, hysteria is no longer recognized as a medical condition, and health professionals now know that orgasms are great for everyone’s health.

Our Crystal Delights Kitty Plug – sexuality can be both fun and pleasurable

Today, sex toys can improve sexual function for people with conditions that may dull nerve sensitivity such as multiple sclerosis, diabetes, or nerve damage. Sensitivity can even decrease sometimes with the use of certain medications, like those used to treat depression and high blood pressure. Some physicians believe that sexual aids can also help women recover quicker from pelvic surgeries because they increase blood flow.

Sex toys have helped people lead healthier, happier lives for thousands of years, and continue to to this day. In fact, they are more popular than ever, with nearly half of American women and about 30% of American men owning at least one.

With all the different choices one can make when choosing the “right” pleasure product, we encourage the consumer to always think about quality and safety, as well as pleasure when deciding what’s right for them. Of course, we hope Crystal Delights is on your short list!