Whether intended solely for individual use or as an enhancement in partner intimacy, it's evident that a significant number of people possess at least one sex toy.

In fact, the global market for sex toys surpasses a staggering $15 billion annually. Research indicates that nearly half of the British population acknowledges owning at least one of these, shall we say, spicy items.

There are numerous health and well-being advantages associated with sexual stimulation and masturbation that extend far beyond mere pleasure.

Samantha Evans, who transitioned from a nursing career to co-founding and directing the sex toy company Jo Divine, told Patient that there is a growing number of customers seeking sex toys to address specific health concerns.

There are a bunch of benefits to sexual stimulation, which can be brought on by a trusty sex toy (Getty Stock Image)

"Sex toys can assist in managing menopausal symptoms like vaginal atrophy, vulval/vaginal pain, and tightness caused by conditions such as vaginismus, vulvodynia, lichen sclerosus, treatments for gynaecological cancer, and surgical interventions. They also aid neurological conditions like multiple sclerosis, and issues like lack of arousal and low libido," she explained.

"Utilizing a slim vibrator can aid in stretching vaginal tissues for pain-free penetration, while the vibrations enhance blood circulation to the vaginal walls, promoting healing, stimulating nerves, and improving lubrication," she noted.

Samantha further elaborated: "Incorporating sex toys to heighten sexual pleasure and achieve orgasm can promote better sleep, enhance immunity, alleviate pain, reduce stress, and even enhance cognitive function.

"Age should not be seen as a limitation. One woman shared with us her experience of achieving her first orgasm at 70 with the help of a sex toy. Unlike medications, sex toys have minimal side effects and can enable many women to enjoy clitoral and G-spot orgasms, experiences they may not have had before. Additionally, sex toys can facilitate continued enjoyment of sexual intimacy and pleasure when penetrative sex is not feasible."

Studies have found that using vibrators can offer a number of benefits (PM Images / Getty Images)

A 2024 study published in the National Library of Medicine titled The Role of Vibrators in Women’s Pelvic Health: An Alluring Tool to Improve Physical, Sexual, and Mental Health explored the connection between vibrators and enhancements in sexual, genitourinary, and mental health, as well as life quality.

This study included women aged 18 to 80, recruited from a urogynaecology clinic, who were evaluated at the start and after three months using validated questionnaires and pelvic examinations.

Of the 79 women who participated, 53 completed the study (mean age: 54.7 years). Most were white, post-menopausal, and not undergoing hormone therapy.

Findings revealed significant improvement in sexual function, a notable decrease in pelvic organ prolapse symptoms and pain scores, and a reduction in urge urinary incontinence rates, though not statistically significant. Additionally, lichen sclerosus lesions and vaginal atrophy showed substantial improvement, and depression rates significantly decreased.

The study concluded that regular vibrator use was linked to enhanced sexual health, reduced pelvic and genitourinary symptoms, and a positive effect on mental health and quality of life for women.

Using sex toys can even boost your brain power! (Westend61 / Getty Images)

Meanwhile, Dr. Stephanie de Giorgio, a GP with a focus on women's health, has intriguingly recommended sex toys for certain health issues.

"An unexpected benefit observed in a study of menopausal women was improved sleep and a reduction in overnight menopausal sweating," she shared with Patient. "There is also evidence suggesting that slim internal vibrators, when used with high-quality vaginal lubricant, can enhance blood flow to the vaginal area, ameliorating symptoms of certain vaginal conditions."

The expert further added: "Research indicates that women often prefer slim vaginal vibrators over the more clinical dilators that are typically prescribed. These can complement other recommended treatments such as local anaesthetic gels, medication, and psychological therapies."

The advantages extend beyond physical or mental health, as they can also enrich your relationship by facilitating conversations about sexual preferences and shared enjoyment.

"It might be something they haven't explored before due to embarrassment or fear of purchasing such items, but expert guidance is available," Dr. Giorgio noted. "They might discover that their sex lives benefit from this newfound openness."