The One Flicker Vibe

January 16th, 2025

The One Flicker Vibe
$59.50 from Babeland

I’ve been using sex toys for nearly two decades now and reviewing them here since 2008, so it’s safe to say that I am rarely surprised by one these days. Intrigued? Sure. Disappointed? More often than not. But surprised? That’s not so common.

Needless to say, I found the One Flicker Vibe intriguing enough to try it. I wasn’t sure if it was going to do much or if the design was mostly a gimmick that is trending. But if I was going to be disappointed by something, why not be disappointed by something new?

I was surprised to not be immediately disappointed when I realized that this is a dual-ended vibrator. The base also functions as a standard internal vibrator, and I think the shape works well for clit stimulation, too. I wouldn’t call the vibrations super deep or strong, but they’re deeper than they are buzzy and inoffensive.

The vibrations aren’t really the star of the show, however–or what I want to talk about. I anticipated that using the flickering side might hurt because my body hasn’t been super receptive to penetration lately, including the traditional vibrator end of this toy. The design is wide and flatter, with a frame surrounding the flickerer to allow it to work. While the flickering arm is flexible enough to bend with your fingers, the frame is more rigid to keep its shape and does not vibrate. So if you’re looking for a toy that does both, look elsewhere. However, I found it surprisingly easy to insert this toy.

Using it is also easy because the button simply changes the speed of the flicking arm. Because I’d never experienced anything like it before, I don’t know if the slowest speed should be slower, but it starts pretty zippy and only gets faster from there. I found all but the first speed to be uncomfortable or painful.

But as it turns out, I don’t think I need more than one speed. While I can usually control when I squirt with fingers or a toy, including vibrators, the Flicker pretty much gave me no choice and forced me to squirt. I noticed it when I switched to a faster speed, but I think that was just a coincidence, and it would have happened anyway. I have to say the sound the flicking arm made when covered in fluid was ri-di-cu-lous.

I was taken entirely by surprise by this. I’ve never had such an experience before, and while it wasn’t accompanied by an orgasm–which I don’t have when I squirt–it felt like an obvious win to me. What I thought was a gimmick turned out to be pretty effective, and I bet some people would be able to orgasm from the Flicker.

So I tried to turn it off as fast as possible, but not before it cycled through a few more modes. I found the slower pulsation-like setting interesting. Flicker replicates the escalation and pulsation we’re used to, but instead of vibration, it’s a fast flickering increasing in speed or separated by pauses. But I already find most settings on vibrators unnecessary because they don’t offer much more for me, and the same is true for the flickering speeds.

The buttons leave a little to be desired, however. There are only two, and I must assume that more buttons mean more complicated and expensive to make. But it’s not intuitive to me that the same button you hold to turn this toy on and off is also the button you need to click to operate the vibrating end, while the other button only serves to control the flickering. Especially because while you can turn off the flickering with one button, you still need to press the other to turn the toy off completely. A third button to control power would make more sense.

I also wish that the buttons were a bit further apart. Perhaps it’s due to them being closer to the vibrating end, but if I’m using the toy internally and want to adjust it, I find myself hitting the wrong button almost exclusively, even though the buttons face in the direction of the part of the toy they control. If the silver band in the center of the toy is only for appearance, I would rather do away with it so the buttons could be more centered.

I also prefer buttons with nice feedback–a bubbly or clicky button, for example, is much more useful than backlit buttons–and the Flicker buttons fall short. However, I didn’t have trouble using the buttons with my fingernails, which is sometimes the case.

With that said, this toy is still functional, even if not perfect. I’m also glad this toy is fully waterproof–thanks to the magnetic charger–not because I like to use toys in the shower or bath, but because it would soon be ruined if it weren’t. Of course, this aspect also makes cleaning Flicker easier. You really want water to get into all the nooks and crannies around the flicking arm because there are places where you can’t fit a finger, although you may be able to use a small brush for cleaning. Fortunately, these spots are all covered in silicone.

If you’re interested in novel G-spot stimulation, especially one that I’ve found effective, then give the Flicker a try. Right now, this toy is a steal because it costs less than $60. But that’s a steep sale that won’t last forever, so time is limited.

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Categories: Reviews, Vibrators

10 Wallet-Friendly Alternatives to the Liberator Throw

April 30th, 2019

It’s no secret that many of us enjoy our Liberator Throws. Using them provides us with peace of mind that allows us to truly let go when having sex. While I’m one of many people who has been quick to recommend these products, it’s also no secret that a Throw is hard on the wallet. They’re a hassle to clean, a little crinkly, and the company has had dubious practices with affiliates in the past. Plus, Liberator Throws don’t really absorb the mess. It just sits on top of the blanket.

So if you’re looking for a product that’s more affordable or easier to wash or simply cannot support the company, you’ve got options! You might not need these options if your messes are small and easily taken care of with a few towels, but for those who towels aren’t good enough, keep reading.

Waterproof Blankets

THROWS OF PASSION Waterproof Pleasure Blanket
Several companies make similar blankets including this one by Throws of Passion

Several other companies make waterproof blankets, some specifically for sex and others for general purposes. Because they’re larger and designed to be prettier and more comfortable than some of the other products on this list, waterproof blankets tend to cost more than other options (this isn’t always the case!). However, you’ve got more choices when it comes to size, material (fleece, velvet, etc.) and colors. These options definitely feel the most like the Liberator Throw.

I’ll take a moment to mention the Avana Waterproof Throw, which comes in the same colors as the Throw. In fact, the description uses some of the same photos and size labels, so it could be an off-label Liberator. However, users say it’s less crinkly than a Throw. It’s a toss-up but markedly cheaper than a Throe if you like the style.

Many of these options simply popped up when I searched Amazon for a waterproof blanket. I stuck to those that had positive reviews and material, size, or color options. There are plenty more alternatives, however, if you search for a waterproof or picnic/stadium/pet blanket. Bonus: outdoor blankets often come with a carrying case of some sort.

Mattress Protectors

Mattress protectors are basically plastic that slips over your mattress, so you need to be sure to buy one that’s the same size as your mattress and deep enough, too. Some are quilted for extra softness. Mattress protectors are not my personal favorite because they don’t protect your sheets, so you’ll still have to wash those. This seems less useful for frequent sex. But you might enjoy them if you’re also looking to keep your mattress pristine from sweat, period blood, etc.

AmazonBasics offers its own version, but you can purchase them in many big-box and home goods stores.

pee pad
Puppy pee pads aren’t pretty, but they get the job done

Waterproof Pads

Waterproof pads protect a targeted area on your sheets and mattress. The smaller size is easier to wash, dry and store, and they often come in 2-packs. They’re sold as puppy pee pads, incontinence pads, and bedwetting pads for kids. You can easily buy them for less than $20 if you’re willing to sacrifice the larger size and aesthetic options.

Although the above are washable, you can purchase single-use pee pads that might be convenient if you don’t have access to a washing machine or room to transport a whole pad/blanket. You can buy a whole bunch of them for very little money.

The cheapest options might not seem as luxurious as a Throw but they may be more inconspicuous and can even come in handy if you do have children or pets.

Bonus: a latex sheet like the type you’ll find in kinky stores lies over the top of your bed. It can be kinky, although it won’t absorb any liquids. Be careful around the edges!

This post contains some affiliate links.

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Categories: Articles

Science of Sex: Male Squirting

April 23rd, 2019

male squirting

As I browsed Reddit a week or so ago, I came across the story of a man who had accidentally urinated in his partner’s mouth when oral sex continued after initial orgasm/ejaculation. Many people in the thread were confused as to how OP didn’t know this was possible. Several commenters revealed that people with penises can experience an ejaculatory orgasm and then experience a pleasurable orgasm-like sensation afterward. However, they’re not ejaculating again.

What is happening then? It appears to be male squirting.

It’s not often that I come across a sexual activity that is new to me. Imagine my surprise to learn there’s an entire subreddit dedicated to it.

A study was able to replicate this transmission to produce “translucent misty fluids with a creatine level similar to that of urine.” The patient experienced muscle contractions as well. Researchers concluded that this was urine being expelled because of the contractions.

Personal stories show that people have been able to squirt this way by rubbing just the head of the penis or via anal stimulation. Although, some people are hesitant because of how sensitive they become after orgasm.

Many people have made the comparison to female squirting, which originates in the bladder but doesn’t appear identical to urine. Both can cause the sensation of needing to pee (this is common when the G-spot is stimulated). There can be similar muscle contractions and fluid is expelled. through the urethra. It’s very dilute, however.

We’ve long been taught that an erection makes it difficult to pee; although, morning wood proves that it’s not impossible. Male squirting seems to be another example.

This is a short recap because there’s only one study from October 2018 that focuses on a single subject. However, the Internet is full of videos stimulating their penises to squirt, and you can see the difference between that and ejaculation, which happens in spurts and not streams.

Knowing that anyone may be capable of achieving an involuntary bladder reflex in response to sexual stimulation might lend more credence to what many women experience when they squirt. At the very least, it can expand how people view sexuality.

Further Reading

Male squirting: Analysis of one case using color Doppler ultrasonography

New insights from one case of female ejaculation.

The Female Prostate Revisited: Perineal Ultrasound and Biochemical Studies of Female Ejaculate

Off Topic: Male Version of Female Ejaculation (Squirting)

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Categories: Science of Sex

Science of Sex: Female Ejaculation

April 28th, 2018

Guess what guys?! I’ve been writing the Science of Sex once a month for over a year. That’s pretty awesome! I am definitely glad to take suggestions like I did with this post. Just leave a comment, and it could become next month’s topic!

science of sex female ejaculation

To be honest, I didn’t really want to write a post about female ejaculation, but this is a request from a friend, so I decided to dip a toe into the water — if that’s what it even is.

Therein really lies the issue with female ejaculation, FE for short. Researchers have yet to prove what exactly is it; although, at least one study have claimed it’s just pee. Whenever a science team makes this claim, however, women are not so happy about it. It’s similar to when reports arise claiming that no G-spot exists.

Let’s start with what we do know:

  • All women are able to squirt a small amount of liquid, prostatic secretion, which contains prostate-specific antigen, that’s created in the Skene’s glands, also known as the paraurethral glands. The fluid is milky and white.
  • Some women are able to ejaculate a larger amount of liquid. It also comes from the urethra but is much greater in volume. This liquid is stored in the bladder before ejaculation.
  • Some women may be able to ejaculate but do not, so the liquid moves backward. This is known as retrograde ejaculation.

Here’s something else we know: FE in porn is often fakes. A woman’s vagina is filled with water, and she pushes it out. It looks good from the camera, but it’s not coming from the urethra.

But let’s back up. There’s one survey that I cannot ignore when talking about female ejaculation. In this survey, researchers used ultrasounds to view bladders. The women used the bathrooms to empty their bladders, and this was verified by the ultrasound. The women began stimulating themselves. After these women had orgasms, researchers collected samples from the liquid. Researchers used the ultrasound to show that the bladder was again empty. Although, we aren’t aware of how long it was between scans.

Some of the liquid contained PSA, but researchers determined there was also urine by looking for urea, creatinine, and uric acid (although, there were no trends between levels measured before, during and after FE). They concluded that squirting prostatic fluid and gushing were two different activities. This was not the first study to come to this conclusion.

However, at least five previous studies have also looked for these chemical markers and found no sign of creatinine in FE.

The one thing that struck me, assuming the newer French study is accurate, was that perhaps any fluid in the bladder would contain trace amounts of the chemicals that scientists tested for in the FE. Could it be not that this means these chemicals are markers of urine but simply markers of fluid that has been contained in the bladder? If that were the case, how would we absolutely define what is urine and what isn’t?

According to Dr. Debby Hebernick, female ejaculate is very diluted urine. This is backed up by anecdotal evidence that FE has a different smell/taste from urine. Dr. Grafenberg also described FE as having “no urinary character.”

I’ve also read from medical professionals that this diluted urine has not been filtered by the kidneys and perhaps could not be due to the volume of fluid.

I don’t know of any studies have that tested the following claim, but it’s worth mentioning. Medications that affect urine do not necessarily affect FE, perhaps because it’s not filtered by the kidneys.

The only thing that remains for sure after the 2015 study is that more research must be done, especially with a control group larger than seven women. And scientists must ask more specific questions than “Does FE contain these chemical markers?”.

Some studies have asked better questions than this one. For example, the writers ponder whether FE might serve an antimicrobial purpose, which could spell good news for people who struggle with UTIs from sex.

Other papers remind us that female ejaculation was readily accepted as a sexual function thousands of years ago, but society seems to have forgotten this a time or two.

But as it the case with so many aspects of female sexuality, we need to spend more money and time to learn more.

More information about female ejaculation

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Categories: Science of Sex

Bijoux Indiscrets cosmetics for better sex

Ina Nutshell

April 9th, 2010

Ina is a high quality toy, easy to use and offers a surprising amount of power. It will probably always remain the best G-spot vibrator I will ever try and I may now be a gusher but, as a rabbit? It completely and utterly fails. Anyone wanna trade me a Mona?

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Categories: Everything Else

Liberator Fascinator Throw

March 28th, 2010

Liberator Shag Throe

Liberator Shag Throe
$89.99 from SheVibe

I recently got a gift from someone awesome and by “someone awesome,” I mean myself. That gift was a Liberator Shag Throe because I was sick of wet spots on the bed (from sex) and washing all my towels (from squirting). I was apprehensive about my purchase the shag throe was only available in purple, while the microfiber is available in more colour choices. People seemed to like both just fine, but I had such a difficult time deciding whether colour or texture mattered more, especially because I am not a big fan of microfiber (but I wasn’t sure if the microfiber throe felt run of the mill).

Note that Liberator currently only offers Throws in one material: “microvelvet.” I believe this is less plush than the blanket I own. Nevertheless, my general thoughts apply to the overall product.

The Shag Throe comes packaged in a plastic box and is neatly folded. I noticed immediately that the shag is softer and plushier than microfiber, so I think I made the right choice. I got what some retailers call “regular” size, and the blanket is really quite large at 72″ x 54″. It just covers the top of a queen-sized bed, which is why Liberator bills it as queen sized. I personally never use it extended to its full size. It is always folded in half or thirds because I simply do not need that much area. I could probably get away with the smaller Travel Throw, which measures 53″ xs 36.”. But if you want a blanket that covers your entire bed, they also make a king-sized option.

The size alone is not the only factor that makes the Throe seem quite large, perhaps even bulky. It is obvious that there are several layers to this blanket; of course, that only makes sense because the Throe has to contain something special to keep moisture from our furniture and linens. According to Liberator, that is an “inner moisture barrier.” In layman’s terms, it seems like a sheet of plastic and sounds like it, too. When moving, folding, or otherwise breathing on the Throe, there is a noticeable sound of fabric-covered plastic. It’s not necessarily detrimental to the experience, especially if you’re louder than the Throe (nor will it give you away to the roommates or neighbours) but it is a little.. unsexy.

So, those outer layers? Shag and satin. The shag is a short fur which is fairly soft to the touch but not like cashmere or anything. It’s definitely more appealing than “shag carpet” which is what had always come to my mind before. I mean, who wants to have sex on that? Besides cheesy 70s porn stars, that is! For whatever reason, the shag side feels better to my hands than my body, which feels a little suffocated by it, but it doesn’t feel bad at all.

And the satin? Well, it’s satiny, but the outer layer is much thinner than that of the shag so it’s easier to feel the moisture barrier inside. Because of this, I don’t really like the satin side as much. If it were just satin or satin over something softer, it would feel better, but it just feels too plastic-y for my tastes. I never use it silk-side-up. However, it’s smoother and cooler feeling, which some folks might prefer in hot temperatures. There are two other downsides to the satin side: it can slip around on surfaces and it runs (like pantyhose). I found out the latter after leaving the satin side up on my bed for a short time, and, when I returned, it was obvious my cat(s) had walked over it. 

The exterior is finished with a secure border/trim around the edges, which holds everything tightly in place. 

In use, the Throe performs as expected. I have read accounts where the Throe was not enough to contain fluids of some people, but I am no super soaker, so I am satisfied. In fact, a product like this can really help someone who is worried about the mess of ejaculating or the difference between urine and FE. I wouldn’t even care if it were only urine, except that I don’t want that on my sheets or bed, so the Throe is a lifesaver. The shag side not only soaks up my fluids but even makes them a bit difficult to see. However, if you’re looking to use the Throe as a towel for cleaning up after the fact, it doesn’t perform so well in that manner, partly because it’s stiff and partly because it doesn’t absorb moisture as much as it holds it. As a result, larger amounts of fluid will pool on the Throe instead of being soaked up by it (but they will not soak through to whatever is beneath it).

Nevertheless, I have found my Shag Throe helps me be a procrastinator (whether or not that’s helpful, you can decide). After playtime is over, I can roll up my toys in the Throe and toss it in the corner overnight or until I am ready to deal with clean up. I find it so handy in that way because I didn’t think of this as a versatile product, really.

The Fascinator Throw is machine washable on delicate/cold. You might even be able to get away with a regular cycle, but I didn’t try. It kept its shape well, and I tossed it in the dryer on low heat. Some folks have let it air dry on the line or shower rod, which is also an option. I found that I had to run it through the dryer multiple times before it was actually dry, which is a bit perplexing. I have no idea how long it would take to air dry, but now that I am back home with paid laundry machines, I guess I will find out. The Throe is in great condition after being washed and dried, and the colour is still vibrant.

But I have to say, I don’t feel the need to wash it every time I use it, thankfully. It doesn’t pick up smells nor does it seem necessarily dirty after a use or two. Like I mentioned, it’s really big so I can just fold over a previously used spot and there’s still plenty of clean surface left.

However, my original blanket seemed to have a defect as the trim started to come undone. I contacted Liberator, which replaced it. I now have two of them, with the original demoted to a cat blanket. The trim hasn’t broken down anymore, even with washing. Because I’ve had it in the window, it has become noticeably sun-faded. My replacement has held up well with no stitching issues, though!

I definitely look forward to spending more time with my Shag Throe!

While I recommend the Fascinator Throw to anyone who wants to make cleanup easier and experience that security during playtime, I understand that not everyone can justify the cost. This is especially true because the price has nearly doubled since I got my first Throw (and I believe it is more valuable than the current microfiber option). To that end, I’ve created a list of alternatives to the Liberator Throw that can save you money.

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Categories: Reviews

Bijoux Indiscrets cosmetics for better sex

Not There

January 17th, 2010

At first, I don’t hear the key in the door. I am busy, distracted by the vibrations against my flesh and my soft moans. The door opens and when it closes, I hear it. I know it is him (who else could unlock that door) and that he will soon find me. I debate turning off and covering up but decide against it. I continue to thrust the toy in and out of my cunt, already slick with arousal and lube.

The atmosphere changes as he almost enters the room, stopping suddenly in the door way. My face is turned away and I pretend not to know he is there. I imagine his mouth hanging open and he’ll swallow his words to take advantage of the situation. I strain to hear him breathe just as he must be straining to control it, keep it quiet.

I moan for effect and slowly pleasure myself with the vibrator. I extract it leisurely from my pussy, running the tip along my lips and doubling back. I rest it against my clit, gasping at the sensation before sliding it back inside my body, angling against my most sensitive spots. I feel myself swell and back off, not yet wanting to release that flood gate.

Just in time, he distracts me, having moved from the door to the bed. His weight shifts the mattress and a shiver runs down my spine. From my position, on hands and knees, I cannot see him and I dare not look over my shoulder. I trail the vibrator from my clit toward my breasts, slowly circling my nipples. He moves closer and I can feel his breath, hot on my skin but not a word is spoken. We both know he is there, we both refuse to acknowledge it.

I tense, almost started at the touch of his fingers, lightly caressing my lips. I rest the toy on the bed, still on, and move my now free hand between my legs, careful not to touch his. I don’t want to break the spell. I plunge several fingers into my vagina. They are eagerly taken in and coated in my juices. I pull them out slowly, sure they are glistening and spread myself wide, sure he is watching. I retreat my hand from its revealed position, grasp the vibrator once more.

He takes the opportunity and I am surprised by his tongue on my clit, zoning in exactly where he needs to be. His tongue flicks and swirls; his lips surround my erect organ and he sucks it into his mouth. I respond with appreciative moans and he buries his face deeper, moaning as well, releasing soft vibrations against my flesh.

Still, we don’t speak, perpetuating the facade. He backs away and adjusts his position. I take the time to slide the vibrator back into my cunt, pushing it against my G-spot. This time I am ready and the pulsations begin the flow. Quickly removing the toy, I push the flood of ejaculate out in a healthy stream. I can feel a hand brush my thigh as he holds it between my legs but not for long. His mouth replaces his hands, drinking of me and he sucks and licks every last drop from my lips and my thighs, leaving them wet with his saliva.

I am empty, but not finished. Not yet. The vibrator finds it way between my legs once more, pushing at my clit. I rub, pressing feverishly to build myself to orgasm. This time he doesn’t touch, at least not me. There is the sound of a zipper, fabric rustling and I know his cock is in hand. I imagine its shape, its size, texture and taste. I am licking my lips without realizing, the sudden fantasy bringing me closer to the edge. I remember how his hard cock feels against me, inside me and pretend the vibrator is as good. It’s not but I pretend, anyway.

We pretend we are alone, he stroking his cock and me with the vibrator pressed against my sex. We are both hot and I am more than sufficiently wet. The bed moves with our movements but I ignore it. I am masturbating furiously as he breathes raggedly. We are both close. As I feel myself about to peak, he moans behind me. I imagine the look on his face as he does, a contorted mixture of pleasure and effort and am sent over the edge myself. I feel the contractions of my muscles, a quick succession of orgasm that fades not long after it begins. I am not immediately aware of the hot cum that he landed on the back of my thighs but it cools quickly and gravity pulls it down my skin.

I turn off the vibrator, drop it between my legs. We are still silent, except for the sound of our heavy breathing and his pants becoming zipped once more. He climbs off the bed and quietly makes his way toward the door. As my heartbeat slows and breathing quiets, I hear the door open and close, once more the sound of keys jingling in the lock.

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Categories: Stories

Image © MisterUnlucky; used with permission.