What’s the big deal with Ben-Wa balls?

Ben-Wa balls, or orgasm balls, have been popular among women for hundreds of years, but interest has skyrocketed since the popularity of Fifty Shades of Grey, which features the use of Ben-Wa balls. While many people rave about the subtle sensations and health benefits of these little toys, the marble sized balls aren’t much to look at, and you might find yourself thinking, what’s the big deal? So, here’s the low down on why (and how) to use Ben-Wa balls.

Types of Ben-Wa balls:

Typically, Ben-Wa balls consist of two metal or plastic orbs with a small weight inside each, though silicone and glass balls are also popular-some companies even make pure gold Ben-Wa balls, for those wanting to splurge!  Traditionally, there is no string connecting the balls, though many companies offer that style as well.

A similar style of toy, Duotone balls are larger than Ben-Wa balls and generally made of a softer material, such as silicone. These toys always contain internal weights, and are connected with a cord and have a loop for easy insertion and removal.

 Above: silicone duotone balls from Lelo 

Using Ben-Wa balls for pleasure:

Ben-Wa balls were originally developed for use during intercourse, and many people still use them that way- the added sensation of the balls provides extra stimulation for both partners, and can increase the sensation of ‘fullness’. 

Duotone balls are typically too large to use comfortably during intercourse, but both styles of toy are great for masturbation. The balls are simply inserted into the vagina where, in combination with movement (such as walking or sitting in a rocking chair) they stimulate sensitive vaginal walls. For masturbation, balls with weights are more popular since they allow users to feel the movement of both the balls themselves and the inner-weights.

Using Ben-Wa balls for health:

Two balls-two purposes! Ben-Wa balls are also incredibly effective for Kegel or pelvic floor exercises that strengthen and tighten the vaginal muscles. Because  those are the muscles that contract during orgasm, kegels can do a lot to heighten your pleasure! These exercises can beneficial for anyone, but are most often done to treat mild urinary incontinence, such as the kind that occurs during menopause, or to tighten the vaginal muscles after giving birth.

In this case, the goal is to be able to keep the balls in the vagina by constricting the muscles. These exercises are simple but effective, and can be done nearly anywhere. Why not give them a try as you do the dishes?

But how do I get them out?

This is one the most common questions we get when people hear about Ben-Wa balls, but it’s not as difficult as it might seem. If you have a style with a cord, you can simply pull it out, if not, simply squat a bit and push them out. If that doesn’t work, you can use your (or your partner’s) fingers. Since the vagina is a ‘closed circuit’, you don’t have to worry about losing the balls.

It’s important to note that Ben-Wa balls should not be used for anal stimulation unless they have a string/loop for removal. Because the anal cavity isn’t a ‘closed circuit’ like the vagina, toys without a handle of some sort can get lost-costing you a very embarrassing trip to the ER.

Caring for Ben-Wa balls:

As with any toy, it is important to clean Ben-Wa balls before and after every use with a designated toy cleaner LINK or anti-bacterial soap in order to prevent infection. If you have glass Ben-Wa balls, they can even be sterilized by boiling them.

Also, like any toy, if it cannot be completely sterilized it should never be used for both anal and vaginal play, as the bacteria that is natural in the anus can cause infections in the vagina.

Shop Ben-Wa balls at FantasyGifts.com: http://www.fantasygifts.com/sex-toys/kegel