A vibrator that has been designed to cater to the needs of new mums is officially launching – with the aim to “tackle the taboo of mothers’ pleasure, sexuality and education,” according to sexual wellness brand Smile Makers.
The vibe, named ‘The Whisperer’, was created in collaboration with Mumsnet based on feedback from UK mothers and their concerns around sexual wellness and pleasure.
According to a report from Smile Makers and Mumsnet entitled ‘Finding pleasure after childbirth’, 75% of mothers worry about reconnecting with their sexuality after giving birth – and while 84% are proud of their body, more than 60% struggle with body image and feel like “a vessel for their child’s needs”.
The good news is, in 2023 we will see a continued shift in attitude toward being more flexible and open-minded when it comes to our sex lives.
The results of a survey and focus group found that many women feel nervous about having sex post-birth, fearing pain or a change in sensation – while others feel their libido hasn't returned after having a baby, or they felt disconnected to their identity. Tiredness and lack of time were the most common reasons given for not resuming sexual activity post childbirth.
One woman candidly said: “As my baby gets older I feel like a vessel for his needs – like my body exists to be climbed over, jumped on… it’s all the lovely parts of being a mum, but then my husband comes home and wants to do the same.”
The Whisperer – named to reflect its discreet volume levels as well as the notion of gentle, personal pleasure – has been designed to cater for scar tissue and heightened sensitivity.
Made from flexible silicone for a soft sensation, the new mum-friendly vibrator is designed to be used for clitoral stimulation, based on the feedback that mothers can feel anxious about penetration. The curved tip is designed to hug the clitoris and stimulate the vulva with discreet – but satisfying, one hopes – vibrations.
From making missionary work for you to trying out the butterfly.
Alongside the launch, Smile Makers’ brand director Cecile Gasnault commented on the “taboo” surrounding motherhood and sexuality that needs to be addressed. “We knew from previous activations with our community that sex and motherhood is a deeply-rooted taboo,” she said. “The lack of conversation and resources on the topic is leaving people with wombs feeling side-lined as sexual beings.”
