GrownUps issue
Not
your Mother’s
Vibrator
THE E XCITEMENT A STR AP- O N C AN B RIN G TO ANYONE’ S B ED RO O M
RACHEL BECHER
F
rom vibrators to penis rings and dildos, the art of the sex toy has diversified to accommodate a growing and enthusiastic customer base. The use of sex toys has an old and historical legacy. (Historians date dildos back to the Paleolithic era, in which polished phallic structures have been discovered.) Whether used solo, or with one or multiple partners, extra buzz or penetration can really go the extra mile to heighten sexual satisfaction. A lot of hype is placed toward less extreme toys, such as external vibrators. While enticing as the sexual appetites and curiosity of people expand, I feel as though attention should be brought upon a more adventurous aspect the sex toy realm — the strap-on.
One can give or receiVe penetration regardless of gender, destroying the notion that sexual dominance is acqUired throUgh the possession of a birthgiven penis.
For both homosexual and heterosexual relationships, a strap-on can bring an entirely new dimension into lovemaking. The first that comes to mind is the aspect of gender-bending, in which a female can don an artificial phallus and penetrate her male partner — often referred to as pegging. This is also positive in lesbian relationships when penetration is desired. Indeed, some strap-ons don’t even require a strap, functioning as a dual-sided phallus that penetrates both partners at the same time, leading to more physical closeness. However, strap-ons are not just for women! Strap-ons can give men extra confidence if they suffer from erectile dysfunction, and provide the option for double penetration of their partner. Buying a smaller strapon can make their “original package” seem larger, 18 MARCH 02, 2016
boosting their self-esteem and, in turn, their libido. Some strap-ons are hollowed out, and allow men to perform for a longer amount of time, without having to worry about losing an erection. As well, it’s not uncommon for transgender gents to wear them not only in bed, but around the clock. Strap-ons come in a variety of shapes, sizes, materials, and harness types. Vibrating dildos are available, as well as chin-straps designed for penetration during oral stimulation. The handsfree option of all strap-ons allow the hands to roam the rest of the body, and can be used in combination with other toys. Beyond these exciting options, a strap-on works to change the way gender is displayed through sex. Men can be the ones receiving penetration, shattering the myth that only gay men can enjoy anal. Switching gender roles in heterosexual relationships might seem daunting, but through trust and honesty, each partner can experience positive and sexy results from experimentation.
Ultimately, a strap-on functions as a tool of pleasure rather than a tool of dominance. Although one partner is receiving, the social constructs of gender come crashing down with the introduction of an artificial penis. One can give or receive penetration regardless of gender, destroying the notion that sexual dominance is acquired through the possession of a birth-given penis. They give an opportunity for lovers to communicate their sexual desires, and allow for deeper intimacy through