It was Socrates who once said, “the unexamined life is not worth living.”

While we probably don’t want sex tips from a perpetually disheveled, Ancient Greek Philosopher, there might be some truth to his dictum when it comes to our sex lives. At the very least, the unexamined sex life is worth improving. To get you on your way, we’ve used our myth-busting magic to examine some common misconceptions about sex toys.

Myth: Sex toys are really only marital aids

You may have heard sex toys described as “marital aids.” If you haven’t (lucky you), then you’re probably as put-off by the term as we are. The euphemism makes sex toys sound like a clinical device used to snatch a couple’s sex life from the grip of death.

Sure, sex toys can add an x-factor to the fun you’re having with a partner, but most sex toys aren’t really used as “marital aids.” Sex toys are used by all kinds of people. In fact, nearly 50% of adult women in the United States are currently using a sex toy.

Sex toys can add excitement and variability to sex. So instead of thinking of sex toys as a last resort, think of them as an integral part of your sex life.

Myth: Sex toys replace the other person

A common fear people have when considering introducing sex toys into the bedroom is that the toys will out perform or overshadow a partner. This simply is not true.

People and sex toys have different things to offer. Sex toys can offer reliability and a diversity of textures and sensations. But people offer intimacy and excitement that cannot be replicated by a toy. Put the two together and you’re guaranteed to take your sex life to the next level.

New experiences and increased excitement can make sex even more appealing. It can increase your sex drive and ultimately result in more sexual encounters with that special someone.

Myth: Sex toys are cheap and nasty

This misconception is particularly dated and out-of-touch. In recent years the sex toy industry has blossomed. There is now a huge range of brands and products to choose from, as well as a rapidly increasing range of high-end, luxury toys. That’s right – sex toys are getting fancy!

Plus, it is now easier than ever to find sex toys made from body-safe, durable materials. For instance, at SexToys.com.au we only sell toys made of premium materials – our favourite is medical grade silicon.

Myth: Sex toys are unnatural

Boy is this misconception a judgmental one! Here at sextoys.com.au we get our hackles up whenever we hear sex described as “unnatural.” Sex between consenting adults is not unnatural – sure it might be diverse, but that in itself does not make it unnatural. In fact, our sex drives are one of the most natural things about us humans.  Sex toys are just one of the many wonderful and exciting ways we can express and explore of sexuality.

Myth: Sex toys are only for kinky types

Wrong! Sex toys are for all types. Sex toys, like people, come in many different shapes and sizes. Sure, some sex toys are designed for a specific fetish or for BDSM-inclined folk, but most toys are designed for use by anybody who wants to get the most out of their sex life. Remember that stat from above? Half adult women currently use sex toys! Sex toys are for fun-loving, sexually-excited types, just like you!

Myth: Sex toys are addictive

Using sex toys is all about variety of experience. While there is no direct link between sex toy use and addiction, the best way to get the most out of your sex toy is to vary how and when you use it. It’s best to think of them as one of many different aspects of your sex life. Relying exclusively on a sex toy to get you off would be like only ever eating your favourite food – pretty soon you’ll find your experiences are limited and predictable. So try mixing up how you use your toy – find new ways to use it with a partner and maybe even consider treating yourself to a new purchase!

So now we’ve freed up your thinking, it’s time to have yourself some fun!