This Sunday, we feature an interview with Shaye Saldana of Lelo.  It’s an in depth look at how Lelo makes sex toys with some of the best reputations in the industry:

“LELO uses the quality of the design and a fashionable aesthetic to appeal those customers naturally used to shopping in the luxury end of the market. In fact we have created a limited edition of medical grade stainless steel and gold vibrators that sell for over $1,950. The reality is, that for various reasons the sex toys market still creates many products which are at the low price, low quality end of the spectrum. From that perspective we may be perceived as luxury, however as customers get used to certain standards then we believe that we will be seen as much value for the money as a luxury brand.” – Shaye Saldana

Also, we’ll have Ginger Leigh’s Sunday Wishes and other educational and informative posts that we hope you can use to find the perfect toy for you.  Check in on Sunday for the second edition of the Sunday Sex Toy Review.

Nobody wants to head into the weekend on a really bad note, but the reality of erectile dysfunction (ED) can be a tune that ruins a sex life – if you try to ignore it.  Worse yet, trying to cover up ED can ruin a great sexual relationship.  And men everywhere are unaware that ED is one of the most common problems reported among men aged 40 -70.  52% of men in that age group will experience ED and report it. 

There are no reliable numbers for how many men don’t report it, and that group is suffering needlessly.

WebMD has a great quiz to test your knowledge of ED.  If you have difficulty with erection, you’ll want the information on that quiz.  Medical professionals have a variety of treatment options to deal with the problem, so your sex life isn’t over just because you’re having issues with getting erect.

It is vital for a man’s sexual health to get treatment for ED.

Hollow Vibrating Extension by Doc Johnson

However, the man with ED isn’t the only one who suffers.  Our sexual partners need release, and if we’re unable to perform, the relationship suffers.  On the bright side, there are many options other than intercourse to enjoy sexual fulfillment.  But let’s assume that intercourse is something important to you and your partner.  There is a solution for that as well. 

For instance, Doc Johnson produces the Hollow Vibrating Extension that can be used as a strap on.  This can be an excellent tool to tide a relationship over until other treatment options begin to work.  And there are a variety of other sex toys that can make a difference between frustration and happy sexual fulfillment. 

You don’t have to let ED ruin your weekend.  Get medical help to treat it, and use your imagination.  You’ll be happier and we’re almost certain your partner will too.

Sarah Wagner, MD, presents a stark warning in News-Medical:

“”Genital piercings can be particularly problematic, if the piercing is not done or cared for properly,” said Wagner. “The most common issues associated with genital piercings are infections, which can be life-threatening, if left untreated.”

Other problems that can arise from genital piercings include the transmission of viruses, such as hepatitis B or C. Additional complications include bleeding, redness, swelling, pain, scarring, disfigurement and tissue trauma. This type of piercing also can pose a problem during childbirth due to its proximity to the birth canal.”

Nipple and Clitoral Non Piercing Jewelry

We’re fans of safety here at Sextoys, so the article made us take a second look.  The same issues can occur in other forms of body modification if a person chooses the service of an unsanitary facility.  The difference here is that, unlike an earlobe, genital piercing can lead to the worst kinds of damage in areas that should be providing the most kinds of pleasure.  An infection or tissue damage on the clitoris is a horrible thought.

As you know, we’re not doctors and we don’t give medical advice.  But Dr. Wagner is, and we’ll pass hers along:

“Women who choose to pierce their genitals despite the risks should practice good hygiene and be up front with their health care providers about their hidden piercings.

‘Patients should alert their health care providers about genital piercings in the event that they have to undergo an emergency surgery or magnetic resonance tomography (MRI) procedure where the piercing would have to be removed for the safety of the patient,’ said Wagner. ‘Physicians also should familiarize themselves with genital piercings and the issues that can arise from this growing trend.’”

We’d also add that there are ways to create the appearance of body modification without invasive methods like piercing.  Non-piercing jewelry is readily available in our jewelry section.  Check it out and you may find a way around the threat of infection.  And please take note of Dr. Wagner’s advice. 

Remember what we often say: The most fun play is always the safest too.

The Times of London has a guide to new luxury sex toys, and we aren’t surprised to see that Lelo made the cut – again.  The LIV was listed among the best.  For those of you who aren’t familiar with LIV, here’s the information.

“Versatile, smooth and sleek, the high-tech LIV vibrator is designed to enhance your play time visually as well as with your sense of touch. The Liv has a rounded head that narrows on a slight curve to a narrow neck and widening toward the base.

LIV by Lelo

This blue vibrator has a velvet touch. It comes with a 5 mode variable control, a black case and a 1 year warranty.

The LED lit control panel allows for fingertip control. It also has a locking function to prevent your vibrator from activating while travelling or at any other inopportune moment.

This toy is an elegant, powerful addition to any collection.”

At this point, we’re only surprised when we don’t find a Lelo vibrator on the luxury list.  Their quality has developed a reputation world-wide.  Make sure to catch the interview with Lelo’s Shaye Saldana in this week’s Sunday Sex Toy Review.

I’m pretty sure that by now I’ve made it clear that I’m all about lube! A couple of weeks ago I wrote a brief piece on the pros and cons of silicone lubricant and think it’s only fair to give water-based products the same treatment. I’m a pretty big fan of silicone lubes like iLube, but always have a couple of bottles of quality water-based slippery stuff at arm’s reach!

The one reason I find myself reaching for a water-based lubricant the most is because I have a lot of silicone toys.  Since most are compatible with just about everything, I don’t have to worry about a chemical reaction breaking down my expensive silicone dong, condoms or dental dams.  If you’ve been paying attention, you know that silicone lubes can’t be used with silicone toys, so a good water-based lube is a must have.

Another great thing about water-based lubes is that, in my experience, they more closely resemble my natural lubrication.  If that’s important to you, I’d definitely recommend a product like O’My Natural Lubricant.  It’s doesn’t feel greasy or leave a mess, it just helps to reduce friction and keep things plenty slick!

The final big selling point for water-based lubricant is that clean up is a snap!  It easily washes away with soap and water and it typically doesn’t stain your sheets.  Nothing ruins the memory of a good night like seeing a big stain on your expensive sheets!

Of course, nothing is perfect, and there are a few drawbacks to this stuff.  First, it doesn’t typically last as long as a silicone-based product.  That means you may need to stop the action to reapply or reactivate with water, which is a total buzz kill.  It’s also worthless if you’re looking to play in water because it simply dissipates.

For any lube, I’d recommend staying away from parabens, sugar derivitives and glycerin.  It’s always best to check out the list of ingrediants before purchasing any product you’re going to put inside your body!

While I love water-based lubricant, I don’t really think there is a single lube that is perfect for every situation and that investing in a couple of quality bottles is a great idea.  There’s one thing that I do know for sure – lube is a great way to enhance your sex life.