So, A Gynecologist Walks into an Adult Novelty Shop…

So, A Gynecologist walks into an Adult Novelty Shop (aka; sex toy shop)

As the Girlfriends' Gyno, my mission is to shed light on the topics surrounding sexual health that are often misrepresented on social media. Due to restrictions on platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and Facebook, my media guru (let's call her Darby) suggested early on that we create an OnlyFans page dedicated to discussing sexual health. I am a firm believer in the importance of healthy sex, relationships, and intimacy. So, here we are—six months later, launching my OnlyFans!  

In the spirit of pushing boundaries and using my own experiences as the foundation for content, I thought about the things I used to be curious about but felt a bit uneasy exploring. I am very comfortable speaking about intercourse, intimacy, masturbation and sexuality in my office, offering advice with sensitivity and compassion. But to be honest, I have only gone into one sex toy shop in my life.  It was a large impersonal store filled with rows of vibrators, bullets, butt plugs and dildos.  When I nervously asked the aloof salesperson for a recommendation for a “starter vibrator,” she pointed me in one direction, and I only felt more lost and embarrassed. 

I have a diverse group of women friends—some married, some divorced, some dating—and we often talk about sex, relationships, and how our bodies are changing as we enter menopause. However, we really don’t talk about sex toys, masturbation and what we like and don’t like on our bodies. There are some fabulous podcasters out there that are working hard to normalize this conversation and I am hoping to add my voice to theirs and crack open this amazing world of retail. I do not think that I am the only person who feels a little intimidated by walking into one of these stores. So, for all of you out there, I’m “taking one for the team” and documenting my adventures as I explore the world of adult novelty stores.

My first stop was Sassy Sensations in Pittsburgh, Pa.  This female owned and operated chain of 3 boutiques opened my eyes to a world of products and innovation that can help individuals and couples explore their sexuality and sexual health.  We discussed everything from dildos (silicone and glass) to lubricants and massage oils (spoiler: they’re not always interchangeable). We explored remote-control vibrators that can be operated via Bluetooth from anywhere in the world. But beyond the products, what really struck me was the variety of customers who walked through the door.

I saw a 30-something man shopping for a partner. There was an older couple in their 60s looking to add some spice to their relationship. An older woman came in to buy a gift for a book club exchange and left with not only the gift but also a dildo for herself. During my time there, two men in their 20s came in and out as well. These stores sell so much more than just novelty items—they’re spaces to explore likes, dislikes, fantasies and desires. Yes, there are vulva-shaped bath bombs with a bullet surprise inside, flavored lubricants, and countless dildos in every shape and size. But there are also products designed for health and wellness.

For instance, vaginal dilators are available for women with conditions like lichen sclerosis or genital urinary syndrome of menopause (formerly known as atrophy), or for those who have undergone surgery, transitioned, or experienced trauma or scarring during childbirth. These products help maintain flexibility and tissue integrity. The store also carried Kegel weights made of silicone, available in various shapes and sizes, designed to strengthen pelvic floor muscles. Additionally, medical-grade glass, stainless steel, and silicone Kegel balls can be used to enhance sexual pleasure and/or strengthening the pelvic floor.

This visit marked the first step on my journey to sexual health enlightenment and liberation. I look forward to working with more “unique boutique” owners to highlight their best sellers, the challenges they face, and to help everyone explore their sexuality in a healthy and open way. Special thanks to Vanessa, Stacey, and Alex for making my “first time” a perfect experience.