Prostate Vibrators: What They Are

Medically Reviewed by Poonam Sachdev on December 13, 2022
3 min read

The prostate is a part of the reproductive system connected to the penis and testicles. It sits in front of the rectum and underneath the bladder, where it produces fluid used in semen. Many people find that prostate stimulation can lead to orgasms in people with penises, though the exact reason for these orgasms is still being researched.

Because of the prostate’s location next to the rectum, it can be stimulated through anal penetration. Enough stimulation can result in an orgasm. 

Prostate vibrators help people with penises massage their prostate more effectively. The vibration adds more stimulation to the prostate, potentially causing those with less sensitive prostates to orgasm where other stimulation would not.

According to human sexuality educator Charlie Glickman, PhD, quoted in Bustle, prostate stimulation is connected to the “point of no return” feeling with penile orgasms. The prostate contracts during orgasm to help push seminal fluid out of the penis. Stimulating the prostate can generate that feeling directly, without stimulating the penis at all. 

Prostate vibrators may help stimulate the prostate more effectively than fingers or other sex toys. The vibration stimulates both surface-level and deep nerves. Prostate vibrators also provide much quicker motions than a finger or an unpowered toy can offer. For people who prefer more intense stimulation, prostate vibrators may offer the sensation they want.

Since they both work similarly, it’s easy to confuse prostate vibrators and clitoral vibrators. Both use vibrations to stimulate a specific location and encourage orgasm. The biggest difference between clitoral and prostate vibrators is their shape. Both styles of vibrator focus their vibration on a certain area, but they need to meet the needs of different anatomy. 

Comparing the two types of vibrators in reviews, the shape differences become obvious. Because prostate vibrators are designed to be inserted into the rectum, they are often relatively slender with an angled head to help target the prostate. On the other hand, the partially external nature of the clitoris makes it easier to stimulate with a variety of shapes. Clitoral vibrators can come in a wide variety of shapes, from wands to eggs to “rabbits” with multiple prongs. 

Prostate vibrators aren’t only for gay sexual relationships. Anyone with a prostate may consider using a prostate vibrator for extra stimulation, no matter what their sexual orientation may be. They can also be used without a partner as a form of masturbation.

If you’re curious about prostate vibrators, it’s best to try them on your own before using one with a partner. This gives you plenty of time to adjust and decide whether you find prostate stimulation enjoyable. 

If you do decide to try using a prostate vibrator with a partner, discuss it before you begin. It’s important that you communicate with your partner when engaging in anal penetration. It takes time to fully relax the anal sphincter, so both you and your partner should be patient and ready to stop if anything hurts.

With any kind of anal penetration, it’s important to take a few precautions before beginning. First, take the time to have a bowel movement before beginning. You may also want to clean around your genitals and anus to avoid spreading fecal material. 

Keeping your sex toys clean is important, especially if you use them with a partner. You may be able to clean hard plastic and silicone toys with antibacterial soap and water. Prostate vibrators involve electrical components, so you should avoid immersing them in water. Instead, use a soft, damp, soapy cloth to wash them. Your toy may also come with instructions on cleaning; if that’s the case, read and follow them.