Do you remember the first time you used a vibrator? Felt pretty great, right? Similarly, electrostimulation stimulates the nerve endings and also causes involuntary muscle stimulation. When done correctly, it can be an exciting way to add some new fun to your sex life. Electrostimulation is also used during S&M play – it’s a kinky way to explore the pleasure/pain boundary. Whether used as part of foreplay to increase sensitivity, or as part of BDSM, let’s take a closer look at erotic electrostimulation….
Common Myths
As with many aspects of S&M, there are lots of myths surrounding electrostimulation. Firstly, electro play is in no way similar to being shocked by an electric fence or household current! When it comes to ‘feeling’ electricity, these are the only point of reference for many people. Electro play should only be done with toys that are made specifically for this purpose – these feel entirely different to what you may imagine.
Another common myth is that nipples are the best area for electrostimulation. In short, be very careful! The nipples are dangerously close to the heart and not worth the risk. If current is passed through the heart area, it could cause cardiac arrest or other serious heart complications. There are devices that confine most of the current to the bit of flesh trapped between the clamps. However, if they do not have fully isolated outputs, there is a risk that the current can flow between the two outputs and through the heart area. If you’re sure the device you’re using has fully isolated outputs, or you stimulate only one nipple at a time, then it should be safe. If you doubt the equipment you’re using, simply stay away from the nipples.
Safety First
As mentioned above, passing a current through your heart is one of the biggest risks of electro play….and it’s easier that you may think. For example, if one electrode is attached to your genitals, and you pick up another electrode while the unit is turned on, the current is going to travel along your arm, through your chest and down to your genitals. Before making connections, ensure that the toy is turned off, and in general, keep the connections below the waist.
Electrostimulation can cause powerful muscle contractions, which isn’t generally a problem if the device is attached to one’s genitals. However, it can be a problem if it’s connected to legs or feet, for example. Never stimulate your partner’s legs if they’re standing up–you could cause a fall. Furthermore, if you use electrostimulation alongside bondage, keep in mind what muscles could contract and if that could create any problems. As a general rule, slowly increase the current level to avoid sudden, surprising stimulation.
Finally, never try to adapt a device for electro play. Ever. We recommend beginners opt for battery operated toys. The amount of power available from these is limited, even if something should fail in the device.
Types of Electrostimulation
There are two main Electrostimulation products. The first is Pulse Based Stimulation. These devices all output a pulse type current that is designed to safely stimulate muscles and nerves, and is the safest form of electrostimulation. There are plenty of PBS toys on the market – Zeus Electrosex Penis Sheath (€ 42.04, Kinky.ie) and Electrastim Metal Cock Ring Set (€ 77.06, Kinky.ie) are designed to stimulate one particular place. If you’re looking for a toy that you and your partner can both enjoy, the Electrastim T-Bar Vaginal and Anal Probe (€ 63.04, Kinky.ie) and Fetish Fantasy Shock Therapy (€ 56.04, Kinky.ie) were made to be shared!
The second is Electrostatic Stimulation. These are high-voltage devices that create a spark that can jump to the body. The most common example is a violet wand, for example Kinklab Neon Wand Electrosex Violet Wand Kit (£89.99, Lovehoney.co.uk). They work by ionizing the air between the device and the body. These devices generally come with a power dial, so you can find the setting that you find pleasurable. You can run the device across the skin, which will create a warm sensation. Alternatively, you can hold it slightly away from the skin, which will create a tingly sensation. These devices typically leave red marks where they’re used, and cause temporary damage to the top skin layers. Violet wands don’t generally represent a risk to the heart, but those with a heart condition should still avoid using them.