If you have endometriosis, then you’re probably very familiar with painful intercourse. Penetration and other intimate movements can pull and stretch any tissue growth, especially if it’s made its way behind the vagina or lower part of the uterus. Additionally, vaginal dryness, which may come from hormonal treatment or hysterectomy (two commons ways OB-GYNs address endometriosis), can also cause pain.
For those of you who are unsure of what the term “endometriosis” means, let me enlighten you. Endometriosis is when tissue similar to the lining of the uterus grows outside of the uterus. This tissue can grow anywhere in the body, including (but not limited to!) fallopian tubes, ovaries, or the bowel. Sometimes, these abnormal growths can get in the way during sex, which makes it almost impossible for some of us to enjoy.
Thankfully, there are toys out there that’ll allow you to get around the pain and make sex enjoyable again. Here are a few endometriosis-friendly products to try out the next time you’re feeling passionate.
Ohnut, $65
The Ohnut is an intimate wearable that acts as a “buffer” during sex. Worn externally at the base of the penetrating partner (i.e. on their shaft or on a toy), the Ohnut compresses down during sex, creating a soft, barely-there barrier. Each set comes with four linking rings, that way you can choose which depth feels good for both of you.
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The Ohnut is one of the best wearables out there. It eliminates pain and provides a unique opportunity for foreplay. It’s definitely a five-star toy worth trying.
Quick note: Lubrication is essential to the Ohnut! If you attempt to use the Ohnut without lubrication, both of you will end up in pain.
Milli Vaginal Dilator, $250
Developed by biomedical engineers in conjunction with a panel of medical experts in women’s pelvic health, the Milli Vaginal Dilator is the first expanding vaginal dilator.
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While a vaginal dilator sounds a bit scary, it’s definitely not. Using a dilator gives you the opportunity to teach your partner about what’s really going on down there, in an intimate way. Milli offers women the chance to experiment with dilation one millimeter at a time, so you can better control your pelvic pain.
Hitachi Magic Wand, $70
Often referred to as the “Cadillac of vibrators,” the Hitachi Magic Wand Massager offers clitorial stimulation – the perfect solution for those of us who can’t handle deep penetration.
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For more than 30 years, women across the nation have relied on the Hitachi to get the job done and after reading the reviews, we can see why.
“The only thing I need to say is that today I’m buying my fourth, yes fourth magic wand,” one reviewer writes. “I got one for myself three years ago, and have since bought three, each for friends. This thing is so very easy to use, and so fast. Everyone and their mother should have one.”
Shibari Mini Halo, $30
Like the Hitachi, the Shibari also has a variety of speeds. The best part? It’s USB rechargeable, so you can literally use it anywhere. If you want to get adventurous, you can use it in the shower or bath. Plus, the tip is just the right length to amp up your foreplay session.
Tip: Lather on some lube and experiment by allowing your partner to lightly insert the head of the vibrator. Feeling vibrations in this new area will give you a run for your money, I promise!
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I loved the Shibari vibe so much, I bought my best friend a pink one for Valentine’s Day!
Kip Lipstick Vibrator, $85
If you’re trying to be more discreet, then you might want to give the Kip Lipstick Vibrator a go. It’s small, easy-to-grip, and offers five intensities. Plus, you can pop it in your purse and no one will even know it’s there.
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“Works wonderfully for both solo and partner use,” one reviewer writes. “With a partner, the angled tip lets it maneuver into the right spot more easily than I thought it would.”
Sure, sex toys can enhance your sex life, but the important thing to remember here is communication. In order to have a pleasurable experience with your partner, you should be able to communicate your feelings clearly and comfortably. Fostering this environment of understanding will not only make your sex life easier, but this new sense of trust will amp up the passion like you wouldn’t believe.
Tabitha Britt
Tabitha is the founding Editor-in-Chief of DO YOU ENDO – the first BS-free online magazine for individuals with Endometriosis by individuals with Endometriosis. You can find her byline in a variety of publications including Femestella, Luna Luna, Thought Catalog, and Elite Daily.
