The history of the dildo – Reading time approx: 10 minutes
Although many will think that the dildo is a modern erotic toy, this source of pleasure has in fact been around for a long time. Since ancient times to be precise, where several objects were already being used for sexual purposes. It has even been claimed that in prehistoric times dildos were being used. This is of course, difficult to prove since there is no written evidence from such times. Evidently this humble (yet pleasurable) sex toy came before the pen!!
So let’s find out more about the history of the dildo…
The oldest ‘dildo’ in the world
An elongated stone object (thought to be the oldest dildo in the world) was found during excavations that took place near the city of Ulm in Germany. The object, which is around 28,000 years old (according to researchers), is about 20cm long and 3cm thick. It has a polished finish with a distinct ring found at the end, and bears a striking resemblance to the male genitalia.
But of course all of this remains just an assumption. This is because nothing can be proved with any certainty. Who knows, it may have had a different (and possibly less interesting) use entirely. As with plenty of other prehistorical objects there is a certain amount of doubt that any of them can be described as sex toys.
The ancient Greeks
The Greek writer Aristophanes tells of a ‘sex strike’ in the play Lysistrata. It was organized by the women of various cities to force the men to end the Peloponnesian War. The women were portrayed as oversexed, with lots of complaints about the lack of men and so called… ‘learning tools’!
There are plenty of images on vases and walls that clearly show that the dildo was common amongst the ancient Greeks, Romans and Egyptians alike. So it seems that a long way back in history they were already experimenting with dildo like sex aids!
Shakespeare as ‘Signior Dildo’
Believe it or not, the word ‘dildo’ first appeared in publication around the time of Shakespeare. In his play “The Winter’s Tale”, the English poet refers to dildos and orgasms. Then in the seventeenth century, John Wilmot’s poem “Signior Dildo” further popularised the term ‘signior’ as a alternative name for the dildo. Who would have thought it!!
The contemporary dildo
As with the vibrator, the acceptance and use of the dildo varies by region and era. Indeed a form of vibrator was already being used in people’s homes before the 1920’s. It was a medical device that was used to help women rid themselves of their hysteria. After that, the use of ‘sex objects’ went through a long period of being regarded as a taboo subject. This was due to their association with sexual pleasure and the sex industry.
Then from the 1960’s onwards, the sex toy industry grew and their usage increased once again. This was largely due to the technology behind the ‘toys’ being improved. This was alongside the introduction of new materials coming into use. In many countries, sex toys are now freely available – especially in the West. Although, Alabama is the only U.S. state where the sale of the dildo is still banned.
So having learned about the history of the dildo, let’s explore more about the different types of dildo available to use…
Types of dildo
The dildo has continually developed since its creation. Particularly in recent times, and they are now available in every size, material and colour you can imagine! They are suitable for both men and women. And there are lots of different types on the market to give you the best pleasure.
They can excite both the g-spot and the p-spot, and they can be used by couples too, such as the double ended dildo. There are also plenty of strap-on styles also available. With all this choice available, you are sure to find a sex toy product suitable for you, the next time you’re at the sex shop.
Below you will find details of just a few different types out there…
Voorbind dildo
The voorbind dildo is an artificial penis that you use with your harness. This type of dildo is also often called a strap-on.
These dildos are mostly attached to the hip so that you can penetrate your partner in the most natural way. Strap-on’s are also available with harnesses that can be attached to either the femur or forehead – no funny jokes now!
Strap-on
Although the strap-on is most commonly used by lesbian couples, it has also gained a lot of ground amongst both heterosexual and gay couples alike.
Strap-on’s are also available in versions where the woman can penetrate her partner anally – or vice versa of course. And the same also goes for gay men, who can penetrate each other anally. For men, there are also hollow dildos, which are very popular.
There are some great examples of strap-on dildos for gaining pleasure from sexual practices – so set your imagination to work.
Here is an overview of the different types of strap-on’s available…
Hollow dildo
A hollow strap-on dildo is particularly useful for men who have erection problems, or for men with a small penis. The hollow artificial penis is used as a type of ‘extension’ in which the man slides his penis inside the hollow shell, allowing them to better penetrate their partner. The hollow dildo can also be used for ‘water sports’ sex. This is where a liquid (usually urine) is sprayed through the dildo.
Strapless strap-on (the strap-on without a harness)
There are strap-on’s that are available which are not attached to a harness. These are called the strapless strap-on, but how does a strapless strap-on stay in place (I hear you ask)? Well, the toy is not attached using a harness, instead it is partially inserted into the vagina.
The strapless dildo consists of 2 different parts. The first part is a short dildo which is inserted into the vagina, this shortened part often contains stimulating ridges or studs that move against the clitoris during penetration. Then the second, often larger end, is used to penetrate your partner. Due to the way in which this toy works, it is important to remember that the strapless strap-on can only be used by a woman.
The double dildo
A double dildo contains a dildo for anal penetration as well as the artificial penis which is inserted into the vagina. This makes this toy is ideal for double penetration. There are also double dildos that can be used as a strap-on. Thus, when attached to a harness it gives you a more realistic experience due to the penetrative movements.
Large
Dildos are of course available in many different shapes and sizes. For lovers of larger sized dildos, there is the XXL dildo which has a minimum length of 25cm. But remember, it’s not just the length that matters. The thickness is also very important when choosing an ideal large artificial penis.
If you want to experience the best feeling, it’s best to choose a long and a thick dildo (just like with a penis)! This will give your vagina or anus much more stimulation during use, and can also be ideal for women where the vagina is slightly wider than average. Then there is the special large dildo known as the ‘Fisting dildo’. This toy has the shape of an arm with the hand either having a clenched fist, or with the fingers stretched out towards each other. The clenched fist type is often slightly more difficult to insert due to its thickness and shape!
Metal
The metal dildo comes in varying forms and is usually made from steel, stainless steel or aluminium. It has a hard feel and a luxurious look.
They are ideal when you want to apply good pressure, and they are also great for temperature play – either warm up the metal or leave it in the fridge to go ice cold for that extra special sensation. Another advantage of the metal dildo is its smooth input, as it becomes very smooth with any kind of lubricant, and its also excellent in the shower! And to top it all, it can be easily cleaned either under the tap or in the dishwasher.
PVC, plastic, rubber and jelly
A large assortment of dildos are available in PVC, plastic, rubber or jelly. These materials are far more economical meaning they are often found in the lower price category, although there are plenty of PVC dildos which can look and feel very realistic. The material can however irritate the skin, so remember to pay particular attention to your choice of dildo in these materials if you are prone to sensitive skin. Just like with the metal dildo, these also have the advantage of being easy to clean, and they are suitable for most kinds of lube. Again, these dildos are also easy to use in the shower – so what are you waiting for??
The glass dildo
If luxury and discretion is your thing, then you should definitely go for the glass dildo. These fake penises are made of hard solid glass that is very strong, making these sex toys very durable that can last a lifetime.
Because of their smooth material, they are also great for starters and due to their hardness it is easy to apply good pressure for quick penetration. Glass dildos are easy to clean and can be used with any type of lubricant.
Did you enjoy reading about the history of the dido? Then why not check out our article about how to make your ‘sex bucket list’