Your sex life will thank you
12 sexual wellness products that take you from ouch to the big O
Forget the anti-vaxxers, crop circles and aliens. We think the greatest conspiracy that continues to thrive is that everyone out there is constantly having amazing, mind-blowing sex, playing with vibrators, whips and other sexual wellness products. That’s what we’re mostly shown, right? Perfect, blemish-free bodies moving with the fluidity of sea snakes. We don’t see or hear about the awkward moments, we only experience them, then think we’re doing something wrong.
That’s when your brain starts ticking. Why don’t I look like that? Why don’t we last that long? The sweaty bodies, weird noises, awkward limbs and breaks in between to get some water and change condoms..
A lot can feel weird while having sex, from vaginal farts and premature ejaculation to not being able to connect with your partner, or even feeling real physical discomfort. Did you know that women are more likely to develop sexual dysfunctions and UTIs than men because of the biological makeup and structure of the vagina and uterus. We promise you it’s not some sick joke being pulled by the universe. Pain during penetrative sex and sexual dysfunctions can be treated with the guidance of a trained medical professional.
But we need to remember that our overall experience is mental and physical. Integrating a select few sexual wellness products into our lives can heighten the experience but also ensure it’s safe, healthy and enjoyable for all.
The more women have taken ownership of their sexuality, the more the market for sexual wellness products has grown. Market analysts believes that the industry of sexual wellness products is expected to reach $125.1 billion by 2026.
From creating a calming and relaxing environment for ourselves to experimenting with toys and feeling confident in our skin in saucy lingerie – our pick of sexual wellness products covers everything you need to get comfortable and intimate with your partner.
Sexual wellness products for women who want to take control of their love lives
Water-based DTF lube by That Sassy Thing
Using a lubricant (lube) can ease a lot of discomfort for women experiencing vaginal dryness. This happens especially after menopause with the dip in oestrogen. Lube decreases the friction caused by penetrative sex. There are many different kinds – gel-based, water, silicone and oil.
Water-based lubes are generally preferred by experts because it’s easy to wash off once you’re done, so it’s less likely to cause an adverse reaction if left over. They tend to be kinder to the gentle vaginal skin because they use more natural rather than synthetic ingredients and are free from artificial dyes and fragrances.
The DTF lube by That Sassy Thing checks all the right boxes, using ingredients that keep the vagina healthy from the inside out. Still, everyone’s vagina is different and can react differently to products. Whichever lube you do end up using, remember to clean up well after use and consult a medical professional beforehand for their advice if you are prone to yeast infections and irritation.
Buy it online for ₹900
A sensual body massage with Glow Relaxing oil by My Muse
A body massage can be an incredibly intimate experience to include in your foreplay. It helps you relax, and allows you to gently connect at a deeper level with your partner, particularly helpful for women with vaginismus or those who have a fear of penetrative sex.
The exact cause of vaginismus isn’t clear at the moment, but it signifies pelvic floor muscles spasming and contracting uncontrollably during penetration. This makes it difficult, even painful, to have sex, insert tampons or get gynaecological examinations.
It is believed to be a psychological condition resulting from a fear of physical penetration. This could stem from a history of sexual abuse, past experiences of painful sex, a fear of sex and even anxiety.
As My Muse states on their website, this oil is a great way to “take the edge off”. It’s a blend of natural cold-pressed oils and blends scents like patchouli and cedarwood to help you relax. It also moisturises your skin with hydrating oils of avocado and jojoba.
Buy it online for₹999
Latex-free condoms by SKYN
Some women avoid using condoms because it just feels…bad. Not for the reason you’re thinking. Yes, it can reduce sensation, but some people are also allergic to latex, or some of the common ingredients used in the making of latex condoms. But rather than practise unsafe sex sans condom, opt for condoms like SKYN that avoid latex and are made of polyisoprene.
On a chemical level, they are very similar to latex but don’t contain the plant proteins that cause allergic reactions. They also don’t have that nasty rubbery smell.
Nevertheless, they are effective and a safe barrier preventing STIs and unwanted pregnancies.
Get a pack of 20 Original SKYN condoms for ₹480 (on sale)
Get luxe with sateen 1000 thread count sheets by Bedlam
Now for the experiential aspect of sexual wellness products, let’s get down to the base of it. We’re talking about the sheets.
The higher the thread count, the softer the sheets will become overtime. They’ll more likely last longer without fraying and pilling.
A 1000 thread count bed sheet isn’t really a must, but if you have the money to splurge, then Bedlam’s are a good pick. They have a comfortable sateen finish that will, well, facilitate your slip and slide escapades.
This is a set that comes with two pillowcases. You can opt for a regular sheet or change it to a fitted sheet. But sorry, only sociopaths like fitted bedsheets because they’re just impossible to fold neatly.
Get queen-sized sheets ₹5,600 and ₹6,000 for king
Get playful with adult toys
We don’t mean the roadside ones you get on Colaba Causeway.
Internal and external vibrators, dildos in different sizes, little vibrating rings and even ones that are disguised as lipsticks. Shed your inhibitions and invest in your pleasure.
Sex toys can aid and abet the best orgasm of your life. Not just for solo play but there are also sex toys for couples to use together that can take your intimate experience to a whole new level.
Discreet websites are popping up all over the country, with smaller wallet-friendly options starting from ₹1,500 to hi-tech creations that seem right out of Mr Grey’s Red Room.
ImBesharam has a wide range of sex toys on sale for every budget and desire to experiment. We recommend a handy vibrator to get things started for clitoral stimulation that’ll take you all the way to orgasm city.
Shop online on I’m Besharam from a range costing anywhere from ₹1,099 to ₹60,000 depending on what you’re looking for. They’re also currently on sale.
Set the mood for the perfect date night with Joy Gold candles
Set the tone for the perfect date night at home with these mogra-scented candles from our Tweak X The Faraway Tree collaboration.
We’d keep it at a safe distance. We don’t want any arms or legs flying around to knock this over by mistake.
The soft, long-lasting scents of the candle can be a mood creator as you settle down with your partner for some foreplay. Maybe bring out some of that body oil higher up on this list for an all-encompassing relaxing and arousing experience.
Get yours for ₹850
You will love this
Mood lighting with a wireless dimmer by IKEA
Speaking of creating a mood for intimacy, let’s talk about lighting.
Some people like to leave the lights on, others need the darkness to feel more comfortable and really open up with a partner. But you’re also more likely to knock heads when you can’t really see what is supposed to go where.
Sure, you could get up and turn the lights off and then back on again or leave the TV running in the background for the screen light. But there’s also a chance that you’ll look up at some point and see Arnab Goswami’s face on your screen. If there ever was a possibility for a vagina to seal up, it would be this.
Whether you’re looking for soft lighting or maybe are too lazy to get up from bed to do it, this dimmer kit from IKEA will solve your problems.
The smart lighting kit includes a wireless dimmer and a large base LED light bulb which is controlled by a little remote you can keep on your bedside table. You can purchase more bulbs as needed from IKEA, just check beforehand to ensure you’re getting the correct bottom on the bulb to fit your light fixtures.
The remote can be paired with up to 10 lights to turn off, on and dim.
Get the TRÅDFRI kit for ₹999
A BlueTooth speaker for the bedroom by JBL
Intimacy isn’t easy with joint families and in-laws under the same roof, or kids running around your one-bedroom flats.
It’s hard getting into the mood when you know your kids are outside watching Motu Patlu. What if they hear you?
The go-to strategy in many households is turning on some tunes as a cover. That can get difficult when your surround sound hi-fi stereo system is located in the living room.
Bluetooth speakers are handy not just for Netflix in bed, but as a cover for when you’re having sex as well.
Shaggy singing ‘Mr Lover Lover’ may be too on the nose, so you may have to adjust to more mellow tunes to get things going when you’ve got company at home. You may want to go with some ambient lounge music and instrumentals.
JBL’s speakers are small but powerful. Hook them up to your phone or laptop and you’re set.
You can go all out on the Flip 5 for ₹9,999 or save and still get good quality sound with the Go 2 for ₹2,199
A delay spray for men by Boldcare
Premature ejaculation is among the most common of sexual disorders, estimated to affect up to 40% of men at some point in their lifetime.
There are both biological and psychological aspects that can contribute to premature ejaculation, including abnormal hormone levels, past sexual trauma, inflammation and infections as well as stress and relationship problems.
But premature ejaculation can also be quite easily treated and managed with the help of professionals. One of the ways to manage it is with the use of delay sprays. What delay sprays do, simply put, is slightly desensitise the area to prolong sex acts.
One of the main ingredients in delay sprays, as is the case in this one by Boldcare, is Lidocaine. Use the spray (from a safe distance) on the erogenous zones on and around the penis. When used in the right amount, lidocaine is completely safe and has been heavily researched and tested as a topical anaesthetic. Always follow the instructions on the package to ensure the correct amount is being used.
Get it online for ₹299
Sex pillow to ensure you hit all the right spots
Sex pillows and furniture have slowly become the new MVPs in the world of sexual wellness products. They can give you the stability and support you want when you’re experimenting with new creative positions in the bedroom.
A wedge pillow, or a ramp as it is also known, angles your body in such a manner that allows deeper penetration. With support under your back, you won’t have to worry as much about pulling a muscle.
It’s also pretty nondescript. Just another pillow in your collection, you know, when you need some extra neck support after sitting for hours in front of your laptop. No one needs to know.
Get it online for ₹2,999
Get the ball rolling with Dice and Spice board game by Oye Happy
Foreplay get be a bit awkward, especially with a new partner. Or maybe you’re trying to break out of a rut with a spouse. Change things up and get the ball rolling with this adult game by Oye Happy. This is one board game you’re going to want to keep out of rotation on game night with your friends and family.
The game comes with four different sets of cards to pick from depending on which colour you land on the board. The set’s categories are ‘Truths’, ‘Dares’, ‘60-Second Challenge’ and ‘Redeemable Coupons’.
A dare could be giving your partner a lap dance or making a caricature of your partner. Truth cards range from sharing fantasies to opening up about habits you’d like your partner to work on. A 60-Second challenge can be giving your partner a hickey for 60 seconds or even browsing your partner’s phone for 60 seconds. Though we feel the latter is too invasive of their privacy. Of course, you could modify the game and come up with your own cue cards.
Ge the game for ₹1,990
Photo credit: Wacoal, Zivame, H&M and Hunkemöller
Invest in lingerie that makes you feel good
Whoever said lingerie is purely eye candy for men has never actually spoken to a woman. Lingerie is more than just sexual. It can be comfortable and empowering, making you feel confident in your own skin.
And that differs from person to person. From bralettes and bustiers to teddies, find what best suits your body and mind.
It can be a flowy satin gown, like this one from Zivame (₹1077 on sale). Make it a matching set of a lace bralette and hipster underwear from H&M (₹1,299 for the bralette and ₹1,299 for a pack of 2 hipster briefs). If you want to get a bit extravagant, then you can try this harness-style bra (₹2,995) and bodysuit (₹4,495) by Hunkemöller.