There’s no doubt that electricity makes the world go round. But did you know that it can also revolutionize your sex life? Erotic electrostimulation, more commonly known as electroplay, might sound shocking (and painful) at first—but with an open mind and the right e-stim toys, you just might find it to be a worthwhile addition to your sexual repertoire.

A Brief History of Erotic Electrostimulation

The first recognizable electrostimulation (e-stim) toys appeared in the Victorian era, when vibrating electric belts—some of which featured “suspensory sacks”—were marketed as a treatment for male impotence. Basically, humans started using electricity for sexual purposes pretty much as soon as we figured out how to power a lightbulb. You know what they say: bros before hos, ejaculation before illumination.

In the 1950s, electrical muscle stimulation (EMS) units were used to promote “passive exercise”, as they allowed the wearer to relax while the EMS electrodes stimulated their muscles. As with the Original Magic Wand, people soon found an alternative use for EMS technology: placing the electrodes in various erogenous zones for enhanced sexual pleasure.

Many erotic electrostimulation devices as we know them today stem from a technology developed in the 1970s to treat chronic musculoskeletal pain called transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS). Once again, it didn’t take long before the technology was co-opted for erotic purposes in the 1980s.

Since the 1990s, more e-stim devices explicitly advertised as sex toys have hit the market, including violet wands, nipple clamps, vibrators, butt plugs, sounds, cock rings, and almost any other sex toy you can think of adding electricity to.

What Electrostimulation Feels Like

Incorporating electricity into your sex life may not be for everyone, but it isn’t strictly sadomasochism either. Although electroplay is associated with BDSM and fetish, the sensations produced by e-stim toys range from a barely-there tingle to more painful zaps.

Your experience will depend largely on what kind of toys you purchase and the way your body interprets different stimuli—that is to say, what feels like a pleasant tickle to one person might be an uncomfortable sting to another. And depending on your sexual preferences, you might be seeking either (or both) of these sensations.

With the right device and good safety practices, you can experience the exact sting, zap, snap, tickle, tingle, vibration, or buzz you’re after during electroplay. Such sensations are great for exploring dominant-submissive roles in the bedroom, heightening sensitivity and arousal, and taking your orgasms to the next level.

How to Engage in Electroplay Safely

Before you go sticking a fork into any outlets to get your rocks off, it’s absolutely crucial that you understand basic electroplay safety. When used incorrectly, e-stim devices have the capability to cause serious injury and death. Here are some ground rules you should go over with your partner before you engage in electroplay.

• Do not use any e-stim toy or device if you have an implanted electronic medical device such as a pacemaker. Electrical currents may disrupt the function of these devices.
• Never use an e-stim toy or device if you are pregnant.
• Do not use e-stim toys or devices if you have any conditions or illnesses affecting your heart or nervous system. Consult your doctor if you have questions or concerns about using e-stim devices.
• Do not use e-stim electrodes on or near the chest. Doing so can result in ventricular fibrillation or cardiac arrest, even in healthy people. A common rule of thumb in the electroplay community is to only use toys below the waist.
• If you’re combining elements of electroplay and bondage, be wary of possible involuntary muscle contractions that may cause injury to the submissive partner. Sprains and even broken bones can happen if you’re not careful.
• Only use e-stim devices made specifically for the human body, always purchase e-stim toys from a reputable adult retailer, and use toys only as intended by the manufacturer.
• Discuss boundaries and safe words with your partner before entering into any kind of electroplay or BDSM practice.

Electroplay Essentials for Beginners

There are plenty of options out there for the electro-curious. In fact, the sheer number of e-stim toys and accessories may be a little overwhelming at first. Check out FunLove.com’s picks for the best e-stim devices for beginners.

Impulse Conductive Gel

For best results, you’ll want to avoid using e-stim toys on dry skin. Before applying an electrode, be sure to wet the skin with either a water-based lube or a gel especially formulated for electrostimulation. Impulse Conductive Gel will help you get the most out of your e-stim session without degrading silicone toys or irritating your skin. The colloidal silver formula amplifies sensations without glycerin, parabens, dyes, and salt. In addition, Impulse is made in the U.S., cruelty-free, and never tested on animals.

ElectraStim Flick Electrosex Stimulator

The ElectraStim Flick Electrosex Stimulator is perfect for e-stim newbies. As one of the brand’s most popular products, Flick comes with just about everything you need to get started, including a single-channel EM60 Flick stimulator unit, connecting wire, charging cable, four unipolar electrode pads, and a storage pouch. Choose from seven stimulation settings with escalating patterns and pulsations, plus 24 intensity settings to find that sweet agony between pleasure and pain. The patented Flick feature also allows rhythmic stimulation in response to your hand’s movements for truly electrifying solo play.

ElectraStim Silicone Fusion Infinity Pinwheel

The ElectraStim Silicone Fusion Infinity Pinwheel is the ideal gateway to electroplay. If you or your partner enjoy sensory play, take it up a notch with this e-stim version of the classic Wartenberg pinwheel. The silicone pinwheels are gentle, making this an unintimidating introduction to e-stim. Experiment from the lowest settings for a slight tingly or prickly feeling when rolled across the skin, or ramp up the power for deep, throbbing muscle contractions. Sensual, easily controllable, and ergonomic, the Infinity is great for beginners and pros alike. Pair with any ElectraStim stimulator.

Fetish Fantasy Series Shock Therapy Pleasure Probe

For deeper stimulation, try the Fetish Fantasy Series Shock Therapy Pleasure Probe. Just plug the three-inch torpedo-shaped probe into the included handheld power unit and adjust the strength and frequency of the shock to your (dis)liking. The tapered tip and base means this toy is great for both vaginal and anal play. With the Pleasure Probe, you or your partner can control the intensity and speed. Start with a sensuous tingle and work your way up to a throbbing tap. Or, quickly toggle through the settings to keep your lover on edge and at your mercy. You can also use the Luv Touch compact control unit on its own as a hand massager, making this a versatile e-stim device.

Shop the Entire Fascinations Electro Collection

Our electrosex collection is just the tip (of the iceberg, that is). With the largest selection of quality products in the industry and more than 30 years as a leading retailer of sensual products, rest assured you’ll always find what you’re looking for at FunLove.com.

We’re proud to offer free shipping on all orders over $89 and will always ship your items discreetly. See our refund policy for details about returns and exchanges.

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