This study, led by Professor Tina Fetner, provides the first nationally representative analysis of vibrator use among Canadian women – an important contribution to sexual health research, public health education, and efforts to reduce stigma surrounding women’s sexual well-being.
Drawing on an anonymous online survey of 1,170 participants, the project examines both the prevalence of vibrator use and the demographic factors associated with it, offering evidence-based insights that can inform health practitioners, educators, and policymakers.
Patterns of use varied across demographic groups: younger women, women with higher levels of education, and bisexual women were significantly more likely to report recent vibrator use.
Importantly, vibrator use was not strongly associated with other forms of sexual behaviour – aside from expected correlations with masturbation and the use of other sex toys.
By documenting women’s experiences in a rigorous, non-stigmatizing way, the project contributes to a more comprehensive and inclusive understanding of sexual health.
PhD
Professor, Sociology
Department Chair, Sociology
Areas of interest: Gender & Sexuality, Political sociology & social movements, Social inequality