What makes 50 Shades of Grey such a popular book?

Could it be that the fairy tale story of young Anastasia's sexual awakening is the main draw? In book one she was a 22 year old virgin who never so much as masturbated or even knew anything about sex. By book three she had tried everything and was practically begging to go in Christian's red room of pain. Her chance meeting with a young and handsome millionaire changed her life and filled it full of heart pounding adventures as well as the thrilling sexcapades.

It seemed women everywhere wanted a taste of what Anastasia had. This awakened a sexual desire to experiment in the bedroom and really increase intimacy between couples. Many even wanted to try new things on their own like ben wa balls.

How did 50 Shades of Grey breathe new life into ben wa balls?

In the story, Christian presents Anastasia with a pair of silver ben wa balls. After they are inserted into her vagina he gives her a spanking which makes the ben wa balls jiggle like crazy! Anastasia becomes overwhelmed by this amazing new stimulation and they fast become her favourite toy. In 50 Shades Darker she voluntarily wears them to a charity event which soon fill her full of ecstasy. Women of all ages all around the world reached for ben wa balls of all shapes, sizes, colours and textures.

50 Shades of Sexual awakening

For the experienced S&M player, the 50 Shades trilogy was hardly even a blip on the thrill meter. On the other hand, for the average woman these books gave her the confidence boost needed to try new things in the bedroom. Everyone from young mums to women in their 80's felt more liberated and free to experiment sexually. For years women have been taught, ‘Ladies don't do such naughty things.' It would seem that 50 Shades of Grey has broken down these mental barriers and opened up a whole new world for women all over the world to add a little spice to their life.

Work really shouldn't be this much fun. For Passion8's inaugural Toy With Me Tuesday submission, I chose to use a sex toy of my own along with a toy of my own for a fun filled Sunday afternoon. I did get many quizzical looks from my housemate when I asked to borrow her tripod with a balloon whisk under my arm.

Go forth and bring back word of victory my friend!

Here we have a little glow in the dark rubber duck covered in cute love hearts sailing leisurely aboard the HMS Panty Play.

For this image, I thought I'd play on the fact that the Tantus Panty Play is a completely waterproof vibrator. Unfortunately it doesn't float so I wouldn't recommend trying this at home! I had to remove the bullet vibrator and stick my finger in the little pocket to keep my little love duck afloat. I filled up the sink with bubble bath, frothed it up nicely with a balloon whisk then nearly dropped my iPhone in the soapy water. Enter me explaining to my housemate what I was trying to do while asking to borrow her tripod. She already knew I was a bit odd so it didn't need much explaining!

Be sure to check out the other Toy With Me Tuesday submissions for a bit of fun and we'll see you next week!

Sexual Lubricants are the best sex toy ever!

Passion8's top tip? Keep something special in your bedside drawer - an easy to open, handy-sized bottle of quality sexual lubricant it's the best sex-toy you will ever use! There are many different styles of sexual lubricants, from vaginal lubricants, to silicone lubricants, and anal sex lubricants and we recommend you always use a lubricant, but more importantly use the right lube for the type of sex you enjoy!

It still amazes me that there seems to be a taboo about sexual lubricants, if a woman doesn't produce enough natural lubrication you're "dried-up" and your partner might think that they don't turn you on. Lubrication makes everything so much nicer - whether it's for masturbation or for use with a sex toy or vibrator. Some men also report a hand-job with a judicious amount of lubricant is better than oral sex!

• We don't feature any sexual lubricants containing nonoxynol-9. If you are trying to get pregnant there are ingredients in some sexual lubricants such as preservatives that will kill sperm. If you are trying to conceive use Pre-Seed Sexual Lubricant it is a sperm-friendly sexual lubricant.
• If you are prone to infections such as thrush and cystitis, use KY Jelly - it is a sterile lubricant and won't harbour bacteria.
• If you have or are receiving treatment for cancer we recommend you try Sylk, its a natural lubricant, with no hormones and it is also available on presecription.

Water Based Sexual Lubricants

A water-based lubricant offer brilliant all-round lubricant in and out of the bedroom - they are our best selling line of sexual and intimate lubricants. For women who periodically suffer from a dry vagina, our water based lubricants are ideal. If for instance you want to add a small drop of vaginal lubricant discreetly then no one will know - water based lubricants simply mimic your natural body lubrication.

All our water-based sexual lubricants are taste-free, colourless, odourless and easy to use. Water based lubricants are ideal to use with all condoms, if a condom becomes dry it can split or tear, so add a little lubricant to keep things smooth and silky, and a water based lubricant will not harm, or degrade the latex. If you find that a sexual lubricant doesn't seem to last long and you need to apply more, don't! All water-based sexual lubricants are simply reinvigorated by a little water or drop of saliva - hey presto!

Consider the packaging too, our top seller is a pump action lube, it gives just the right amount of lubricant with each pump and there is no messing with tops and caps. Keep a small trial size bottle handy in a briefcase or handbag - be prepared. Water based sexual lubricants will not harm your sex toys and vibrators and will really enhance the pleasure you will receive from your choice of toy and intimate sessions, if in doubt just ask for a sample pack - it's free to try it!

Silicone Based Sexual Lubricants

Silicone based lubricantsare a new generation of lubricant - a sleek consistency that is non-oily and totally safe with condoms, caps & dams. Silicone lubes do not contain water or glycerine, which means that they stay wetter for longer, with an amazing feel of liquid silk. These lubes can also be used underwater and will not wash away - imagine the naughty possibilities there! Silicone is a non-toxic blend that cannot be absorbed by the body - to remove any excess lubricant simply use soap and water. Silicone lubes are pricier than water based lubricants but well worth the extra investment.

Another favourite use for silicone lubricant is a silky body massage. Silicone really is the King of Lubricants, unlike massage oils a silicone sexual lubricant is super-smooth and not at all oily.

Don't use a silicone-based lubricant with a silicone-based sex toy as it can take the smoothness off the silicone toy surface.

The Kegel8 Tight & Tone is the most advanced pelvic floor exerciser available to accurately target and exercise your pelvic floor. Other medical devices are available to treat pelvic problems, but they rely on older technology and are large, not portable, uncomfortable and often embarrassing to use. Now you can use the Kegel8 in the privacy of your own home and better still - no one will know that you're "exercising down there!".

The Kegel8 Tight & Tone unlike other kegel exercisers offers you all of the following:

• Pre-set exercise programmes devised by top clinicians.
• Easy to use: You'll never have to worry if you are exercising the right muscles because when you insert the probe it's automatically in the middle of your 'kegel' muscles. 
• Using gentle stimulation it contracts and relaxes your muscles, even while you watch TV
• Comfortable design: The small vaginal probe is neat and effective.
• Results within weeks
• Oh... and your partner will notice your new-found tightness too!

The new, patented Kegel8 Tight & Tone Pelvic Digital Pelvic Exerciser is a simple, elegant, and effective solution for the debilitating problems associated with the weakening of the pelvic floor muscles. Never before has any pelvic floor exerciser been able to provide this superior level of performance with the convenience and portability of a cordless design. The PMT is comfortable, easy to use, and enables you to perform kegels correctly, anytime and anywhere.

Used for 20 minutes once a day, the Kegel8 Tight & Tone works to:

• Strengthen the pelvic floor muscles
• Inhibit the detrusor muscle through reflexive mechanisms
• Stimulate nerves and increase blood flow to enhance your vaginal sensation
• Tighten the muscles to improve sensation for your partner

Who should use a Kegel8?

• Sporty? - Running, Jumping - all these activities put pressure on your pelvic floor. Many top sports women suffer with a weak pelvic floor, the Kegel8 is the perfect way to exercise these muscles that support over 20lbs of your organs.
• Mum? - The pressure of childbirth, carrying your baby and natural birth will take its toll on your pelvic floor. It takes time to regain your figure and your intimate bits are included here! The Kegel8 will help you get back in-shape.
• 40+? - As you hurtle towards your menopause hormone changes can weaken your pelvic floor, strengthen your muscles now to avoid prolapse.
• Asthma? Coughing puts a strain on your pelvic floor which could lead to bladder leaks, tighten your pelvic floor to avoid those 'laughter leaks'
• Curvy? If you are overweight, you are putting more pressure on your pelvic floor - you're more prone to laughter leaks and lack of sensation.
• Sexy? Do you want the best explosive and pulsating orgasms ever? Do you want your partner to be able to feel your orgasm and enjoy the tighter sensations?
• Kegel8 Tight & Tone - it works!

A Clitoral Therapy Device is in essence a small pump with a tiny plastic cup attachment that fits over your clitoris and surrounding tissue. It provides gentle suction, stimulating blood flow to the area. Although some women with sexual arousal complaints like to use a clitoral therapy device for the stimulation effects, it may also overtime prevent fibrosis of the clitoris that occurs with ageing by enhancing blood flow in the arteries leading to the clitoris.

Thus a clitoral therapy device may have a preventative role as well as a therapeutic one.

Vacuum Therapy has been proven to help with:

• Orgasm
• Lubrication
• Sensation
• Sexual Satisfaction

Clitoral Therapy can also help diabetic women restore sexual feeling

The American Diabetes Association reports that approximately 8.1 million U.S. women have diabetes, and women with diabetes are 7.6 times as likely to suffer peripheral vascular disease (PVD) than non-diabetic women. PVD is a disorder resulting in reduced flow of blood and oxygen to tissues to the feet and legs; this reduced blood flow can also affect the genital area. Just as the reduced blood flow can result in numbness in the feet and legs, for women it can result in loss of sensation in the clitoris. Clitoral Therapy can treat this situation by using a gentle vacuum to draw blood back into the clitoral region.

The wireless clitoral pump is an ideal way to add extra sensation, and with regular use it has a cumulative effect.

Clitoral Therapy can help with Female Sexual Dysfunction

Female Sexual Dysfunction (FSD) is not a disease and cannot be used to describe one single condition, but a term used to describe a number of problems that are estimated to affect over 90 million women across Europe, Japan and the US.

The different types of Female Sexual Dysfunction:

In their book For Women Only, Doctors Jennifer and Laura Berman describe Female Sexual Dysfunction in the following ways, all of these disorders may occur alone or in combination requiring one or a number of treatment approaches:

• A Lack of Desire
  This includes an absence of sexual thoughts and fantasies, or a lack of interest in sexual activity. This can be due to medication, emotional factors (such as depression) or menopause. It is also described as a phobic disorder that can result from physical or sexual abuse or childhood trauma.
• Sexual Arousal Disorder
  An inability to attain or maintain adequate genital lubrication, swelling or other somatic responses such as nipple sensitivity. Disorders of arousal include lack of vaginal lubrication, decreased clitoral and labial sensation, lack of clitoral and labial engorgement and a lack of vaginal lengthening, dilation and arousal.
• Orgasmic Disorder
  A difficulty or inability to reach orgasm after sufficient sexual stimulation and arousal. Orgasmic disorder also includes any difficulty or delay in reaching orgasm that causes the woman distress. Some women describe their orgasms as "muffled".
• Sexual Pain Disorders
  These include dyspareunia, which is recurrent or persistent genital pain associated with sexual intercourse. Dyspareunia can develop as a result of medical problems, such as vaginal infections or thinning of the vaginal lining during menopause, or following some vaginal and vulvar surgical procedures. It can also be psychologically based or reflect a relationship problem or other emotional conflict.

Since ancient times, many cultures have recognised the value of good sex in the art of love-making. Proficiency in the art of love-making requires both knowledge over the years, and of course practice.

In ancient India, there lived a Mughal emperor named King Ahmad. Desirous of the lovemaking skills to match his handsome appearance, King Ahmad commissioned his great princely sage and poet, Kalyana Malla, to seek out the knowledge needed to be a master of love. Kalyana Malla consulted many wise and holy men, examined the opinions of many poets and extracted the essence of their wisdom. Subsequently, he composed a work which was called Ananga-Ranga. This is the second of three classic Eastern love text which include the 2000 year old Kama Sutra.

Kalyana Malla believed the main reason for separation between couples, and the cause that drives partners to the embraces of strangers was the lack of varied pleasure and subsequent monotony. Monotonous sex often leads to no sex at all and a multitude of other problems. Kalyana Malla believed the cure for this was a healthy sexual imagination. Imagination in love making generates increased pleasure during sex, renewing a couple's desire for sexual intimacy. The renewal of sexual intimacy fosters love, friendship and respect in the hearts of couples.

Kalyana Malla's philosophy held that by varying sexual positions with your partner, you could fanatasize as if you had many different partners. Each position had its own unique benefit. Combined, these positions elicited a myriad of sexual delights. Many of these positions were extremely difficult, yet it was often these difficult positions that proved the most stimulation and satisfaction.

However, only those trained in yoga or possessing great strength and athleticism could perform these positions and reap the pleasures aroused. Ancient Indians recognized these problems and created the first swing like devices to facilitate difficult positions. Most were a failure. Limited by the materials and technology of the time, these devices were crude, often consisting of only ropes and pulleys. As you can imagine they were extraordinary uncomfortable, cutting off circulation of the limbs and abrading the skin. Ancient depictions of the use of these swings did not show very happy users. One look at the riders face and you could tell they'd rather be elsewhere. These devices were also dangerous. Not only were they uncomfortable, they were also difficult to use, often requiring attendants and tremendous exertion on the part of the users. Surprisingly enough, even with all these faults, the swing was very popular as an expensive and exclusive item for the wealthy, who could afford both the swing and the attendants needed to assist in the proceedings!

With the Love Swing or sex sling all the benefits of weightless sex, varied positions and increased pleasure can now be enjoyed by all couples, not just the athletically gifted! The Sex Swing is fully adjustable. All back, bottom and leg straps can be adjusted to accommodate all different sizes. The Love Swing combines modern materials and technology to produce the perfect swing for ultimate comfort and enjoyment. The Love Swing is designed with four supports to comfortably hold the back, back and both legs. These supports are covered with soft, extra thick neoprene. This makes the swing very comfortable. Comfort is an extremely important factor that compliments the weightlessness nature of the swing. The straps are made of heavy-duty nylon and are designed as a single-unit construction that is then fastened securely the Torque Support Bar. The sturdy Torque Support Bar is made of heat-treated, high-tensile, strength steel to ensure strength and durability. The Torque Support Bar provides balance to the swing for even distribution of weight, allowing the couple to enjoy their pleasure and relish the wonderful feeling of weightless sex!

With a Passion8 Love Swing you can both enjoy the variety and pleasure first envisaged in the Kama Sutra. in the privacy of your own home, (or with a frame in the garden...) and thankfully without the need of attendants!

Is the hottest moment you've had in bed lately the sharing of a nice cup of tea?

You're not alone. Many of us, at some stage, have to face up to a dwindling, disappointing or disappearing sex life, and it's no wonder. Our love lives have to compete with the veritable obstacle course that is everyday life - be it the demands of children, the stress of long working hours or a mile long to-do list. Then there's the hormone fluctuations, the samey boredom after many years together, a changing body from the extra years and probably extra pounds, and possibly the biggest libido squelcher of all - those unsorted niggles, hurts and resentments which can easily turn a hot bed cold.

But all need not be lost. We ask the experts for ways to tap into your sexual energy and give your libido a new lease of life.

Pencil him in

Putting sex on your 'to-do' list may sound unromantic - but in a long-term relationship, it can be one of the keys to never-ending sex, according to Susan Jeffers, a psychologist and author of The Feel the Fear Guide To Lasting Love. (Vermillion). Pencilling it in may take spontaneity out the equation, but the anticipation leading up to it and the extra bonus time you'll get will more than make up for it. So what happens if the time in the diary arrives and you're not in the mood? "If you think about it, a mood can be changed very easily when it comes to sex. Start with a gentle kiss, a gentle touch, the words 'I love you'. It helps to say to yourself, 'I want to give my mate pleasure,' suggests Susan Jeffers.

If your sex life has dwindled down to little or nothing, take some 'baby steps' first and start out with 'intimacy dates' suggests Barry Mcarthy, a sex therapist and author of Rekindling Desire. These dates, with time to be together just the two of you, can be simple or elaborate - from a half-hour walk, to going out dinner and dancing, or a weekend escape. What matters is not the activities or places - but the time you give yourself to feel intimate and involved with your partner. Think sensual, rather than sexual, if you're just starting to reconstruct a lost love life. "Closeness builds desire as long as there is not a spoken or unspoken expectation that it must lead to sex," says Barry McCarthy.

Show and Tell

After years together, we may think we know our partner's bodies and preferences inside and out - and they may assume the same thing about us. But that can be a recipe for boredom. A good way to jump-start your libido is to get curious again, and open a friendly door to feedback, suggests Dr. Andrew Stanway, a physician specialising in sexual medicine, and author of Intimate Solutions: A Twenty-first Century Guide to Managing Relationships. He suggests you very slowly explore each other's bodies as you 'show and tell' what turns you on and what doesn't. Try it blindfolded for extra interest, then swap. "The key is to be very specific, and to use your ears for this - by really listening to what your partner is telling you. Our preferences and turn-ons can change, so make it a regular process of discovery," he says.

Another wonderful idea for improving communication - and self esteem - is to cuddle up together, and tell each other what you find attractive about each other. Think about every part of the body - hands, faces and feet are often neglected areas for praise. This is one of the exercises in How To Have Great Sex for the Rest Of Your Life, by Val Sampson and Julia Cole and the authors suggest spending at least half an hour doing this, while you kiss and cuddle - and find at least ten complimentary things to say about each other before you make love.

Banish The Body Image Demons!

Many of us imagine that if we had a flatter tum, a smaller bum or the smoothest of thighs, we would have a far better sex life. And that may well be true - if losing weight also helped you to lose your negative attitude towards your body. Because body confidence is one of the keys to being a great lover. But why wait? The truth is, it's not really the size or shape of your body that is going to make you feel attractive, sexy or lovable - but what's in your head. Astrid Longhurst, a psychotherapist and author of Body Confidence (Penguin) says that feeling sexy comes down to 'internal representations' - those mental pictures that can be positive, helpful and motivating, or which can pull us down and hold us back. "Instead of assuming that the way you look will determine what goes on in the bedroom, think about the way you want to feel - physically and emotionally - and also the way you can make your partner feel," she suggests. "Throw away those old mental pictures which defeat you, and choose to replace them with new, exciting, positive images. Picture yourself to be passionate, tender and wild. See your partner longing for you, and wanting you as much as you want him. Don't let those body image demons which destroy your sexual confidence get into bed with you!" Of course, this is easier said than done, and will take some practice. If you have spent the last 20 or 30 years telling yourself you are flawed and unattractive, it's going to take a lot of doing to counter those toxic thoughts. But keep at it. Whenever one of those confidence-leaching negative thoughts intrudes, redress the balance with something positive, such as "my skin smells lovely," or "I love the feel of my breasts."

Develop a better love life - with yourself

Research shows that most women masturbate - and the good news is that those who feel comfortable with it, often report better sex with their partners, as it can help you to explore just how you want to be touched during lovemaking. If your libido has been napping lately, psychosexual therapist Julia Cole, says that masturbation is a good way to re-awaken it gently, at your own pace. If you have trouble reaching orgasm, she suggests tensing and relaxing the muscles in your legs and at the entrance to the vagina in fast succession. "This can improve sensation and mimics what happens naturally during orgasm. You should notice a sense of warmth and gentle arousal," she says.

Another one of Julia's recommended moves is the 'pause technique'. To try it, pleasure yourself with a vibrator or by hand, and then stop once you begin to feel very aroused. Pause for a while, and then resume. Do this several times until you are highly sexually excited. "This will intensify erotic sensation, allowing you to reach a thrilling climax, and with the greater likelihood of having multiple orgasms," she says.

Fantasy Without Guilt

Fantasy is a geat way of keeping the love juices flowing, and it can be an important tool for those who find it difficult to reach orgasm. "Lots of women have trouble with fantasy as they feel it might somehow be disrespectful to their partner," says Julia Cole, "but it can help you to respond more effectively to your partner," she says. For some ideas, take a look at Nancy Friday's My Secret Garden or Women on Top (Quartet books), or to create a perfect hot fantasy for yourself, imagine yourself in a venue you find attractive - a beach, say, or a forest or a cosy fireside. Then build images that arouse you. Be playful with your thoughts as you build up the picture in your head. Use your senses - imagine the smells, the sounds, the feel on your skin. Try not to hold yourself back or worry about whether you would want this scenario in real life or not. This is a fantasy just for you, which you can pull out of your mental toolbox whenever you need a little sexual re-charge, with a partner or not.

Go Back To School

Most of us have enrolled in classes to broaden our skills in areas like languages, cooking, or line dancing - but have you ever thought about signing up for love class? Different courses have different names and approaches, but what most of them have in common is that they offer new ways to build intimacy with your partner, and can help you to shed whatever fear, guilt or shame you are holding about your body. Priya Samuel, a counsellor specialising in relating and intimacy issues and who runs the Intimacy Works workshops, says, "Couples sometimes need a helping hand to slow down, to get back in touch with their bodies, and to learn to connect more with their hearts. Workshops which offer exercises where you share feelings, look into each others eyes and explore sensual touch can open you up again to the beautiful feelings that were there between you, before life got in the way."

Foods for Love

Oysters. Chocolate. Champagne. Figs. Some foods have a reputation for putting us in the mood for love. Scientific proof for aphrodisiacs is rather thin on the ground, but there is some evidence which suggests that oysters may well deserve their reputation. A recent study has shown that oysters, as well as clams and mussels, contains two compounds that can trigger a surge of sex hormones, including testosterone and oestrogen, which are involved in sexual arousal. Plus the mollusks are high in zinc, which may help male potency.

Wash down the oysters with a bit of bubbly or some wine, and that may well add to the effect. A small amount of alcohol relaxes you, lowers inhibitions, increasing not only your confidence in the sack, but also the size of your blood vessels, making you feel flushed and warm.

To finish off a meal, strawberries & raspberries are perfect for hand-feeding your lover. Both are not only high in vitamin C, but are noted aphrodisiacs, described in erotic literature as "fruit nipples". Then there's the seductive spices. The scents of vanilla, nutmeg, clove, ginger and cinnamon have all been shown to be stimulating to both male and female libido.

A romantic meal for two can leave lovers feeling cherished and in the mood to carry on spoiling each other. Over the long term, one sure way foods can spice up your love life is by embracing them as part of a healthy, balanced diet. Plenty of fish, fresh fruit and vegetables will have a genuine effect on your health and well-being, and that has a knock-on effect on your libido, energy, and sexual confidence. Whether you decide to feed them to each other across the table or not.

Sexually Transmitted Infections - STI's

An STI is any infection that can be passed from one person to another through genital contact or vaginal, oral and anal sex.

If you are sexually active you need to protect yourself, whatever your age! Wearing a condom and limiting your number of sexual partners can reduce the chances of contracting an STI. Later this year the government will be running a new campaign promoting safe sex to combat the current explosion of STI's, and Passion8 will be highlighting these health messages and products to help practice safe, but fun sex.

Chlamydia

Also known as the silent STI because its symptoms are mild to non-existent, chlamydia can have a serious effect on, and even permanently damage, a woman's reproductive and overall health.

It is vital it is not left untreated. One third of women with untreated chlamydia go on to develop pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) - the dominant cause of chronic pelvic pain, infertility and ectopic pregnancy. In severe cases, men and women with chlamydia can develop arthritis.

How do you catch it?

• Through unprotected vaginal, oral or anal sex, or genital contact with an infected partner
• An infected person may not have symptoms of chlamydia, but can still infect a partner without knowing it
• Genital chlamydia cannot be caught by casual contact, such as sitting on toilet seats, swimming pools or sharing Jacuzzis.
• Pregnant women can pass on the infection to infants during childbirth.

What are the symptoms?

• Most people are unaware of their infection. Up to 50 per cent of infected men and 70 per cent of women show no symptoms.
• Women may experience unusual vaginal discharge, bleeding between periods, painful urination and lower abdominal pain
• Men may experience discharge from the penis, burning and itching in the genital area and painful urination
• Symptoms may persist, but in some cases they may only last for a few days and then disappear. If symptoms do occur, they start around one to three weeks after infection

Will it affect my future fertility or childbirth?

Yes, if untreated one in three women will develop pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) which can reduce your fertility and hinder conception. Pregnant women can pass on the infection to infants during childbirth.

How can we protect against Chlamydia?

The use of condoms during vaginal or anal intercourse, or oral sex, and dental dams during oral sex can offer protection. Annual or semi-annual STI checks and celibacy with partners until they have been screened can be of help, Passion8 offer two effective and safe home testing kits to detect if you have chlamydia - don't leave testing until it is too late it is vital it is not left untreated, all home test kits are available for next day delivery:

Syphilis

In 2004, the rates for Syphilis infections were up a whopping 80%.

Syphilis is a bacterial infection that can be caught from an infected partner through vaginal, anal or oral intercourse, or passed from an infected mother to her unborn child. The incubation period is 10 days to three months, but treatment with penicillin can prevent transmission of the disease.

What are the symptoms?

The first sign of syphilis is the appearance of painless, but infectious sores anywhere on the body. If the infection remains untreated during the next two years, the following symptoms progress:

• A non-itchy rash covers the body in patches
• A flu-like illness ensues
• Fatigue
• Loss of appetite
• Swollen glands
• White patches on the tongue and roof of mouth
• Patchy hair loss
• Left untreated, the infection can lead to brain damage, heart failure and can cause miscarriages, stillbirths and congenital defects

Will it affect my future fertility or childbirth?

No, not if you get prompt treatment, however left untreated, the infection can lead to brain damage, heart failure and can cause miscarriages, stillbirths and congenital defects.

How can we protect against Syphilis?

The use of male condoms and female condoms during vaginal or anal intercourse, or oral sex, and dental dams during oral sex can offer protection. Annual or semi-annual STI checks and celibacy with partners until they have been screened can be of help.

Gonorrhoea

A bacterial infection that sometimes spreads via the bloodstream.

Transmitted through vaginal, anal or oral sex with an infected partner, gonorrhoea can be effectively treated with antibiotics. It is possible to be infected with the disease and have no symptoms.

How do you know that you have it?

• Men may experience a discharge from the urethra
• Symptoms in women include painful urination and yellow, bloody vaginal discharge
• Men and women can experience anal discharge and pain during anal sex

Will it affect my future fertility or childbirth?

No, not if you get prompt treatment.

How can we protect against Gonorrhoea?

The use of condoms during vaginal or anal intercourse, or oral sex, and dental dams during oral sex can offer protection. Annual or semi-annual STI checks and celibacy with partners until they have been screened can be of help.

Herpes

The herpes simplex virus causes herpes.

There are two types of herpes, HSV-type 1, which commonly causes fever blisters on the mouth or face (oral herpes, also known as cold sores), and HSV-type 2, which typically affects the genital area (genital herpes). Both types can cause either genital or oral infections. Most of the time, HSV-1 and HSV-2 are inactive, or 'silent' with no symptoms, but some infected people have sporadic 'outbreaks' of blisters and ulcers. Once a person has contracted HSV, it remains with them for life.

HSV-1 and HSV-2 are transmitted through direct contact, including kissing, sexual contact (vaginal, oral or anal sex), or skin-to-skin contact with an infected area.

Genital herpes can be transmitted with or without the presence of sores or other symptoms. It is often passed-on by people who are unaware that they are infected. Herpes can also be transmitted even when they have no symptoms.

Condoms are the best protection from herpes however; they do not provide complete protection, because a herpes lesion may not be completely covered by a condom and the infection may spread. If you or your partner has genital herpes, it is best to abstain from sex when symptoms are present, and to use condoms between outbreaks.

What are the symptoms?

• Itching or tingling sensations
• Painful blisters filled with fluid in the genital and/or rectal area
• Mild fever
• Lumps in the groin area
• Painful urination
• Difficulty urinating
• Urgent or frequent urination
• Painful sexual intercourse
• Incontinence
• Genital sores

Will it affect my future fertility or childbirth

No, but if you have an outbreak at the time of birth, you doctor will advise you to have a Caesarean.

How can we protect against Herpes?

The use of condoms during vaginal or anal intercourse, or oral sex, and dental dams during oral sex can offer protection. Annual or semi-annual STI checks and celibacy with partners until they have been screened can be of help.

Damiana Teabags - prevents recurrent genital Herpes infections.

Damiana is specifically used in cases of anxiety and depression where there is a sexual problem such as low sex drive, impotence, premature ejaculation and recurrent genital Herpes infections. Our Damiana Teabags are a great alternative to coffee, and offer a totally natural boost to a low libido.

HIV/AIDS

HIV (human immunodeficiency virus) is the virus that causes AIDS (acquired immunodeficiency syndrome).

Individuals diagnosed with AIDS have a severely weakened immune system and are susceptible to life-threatening diseases and infections. AIDS was first reported back in 1981 originally described as a "gay plague" however following huge efforts to educate gay men and encourage them to practice safe sex AIDS is most rapidly growing in the heterosexual population. New treatments have greatly improved the survival rates of people with AIDS.

How do you know that you have it?

The only way to determine for sure whether you are infected is to be tested for HIV infection. Many people who are infected with HIV do not have any symptoms for many years.

The following may be warning signs of an HIV infection, but do not guarantee that you are infected:

• Rapid weight loss
• Dry cough
• Recurring fever or profuse night sweats
• Profound and unexplained fatigue
• Swollen lymph glands in the armpits, groin, or neck
• Diarrhoea that lasts for more than a week
• White spots or unusual blemishes on the tongue, in the mouth or in the throat
• Pneumonia
• Red, brown, pink, or purplish blotches on or under the skin or inside the mouth, nose or eyelids
• Memory loss, depression, and other neurological disorders

Don't assume you are infected if you have any of the above symptoms, as each of these can be related to other illnesses. Again, the only way to determine whether you are infected is to be tested specifically for HIV.

Will it affect my future fertility or childbirth?

HIV can be passed from mother to child, a factor to consider when planning a pregnancy.

How can we protect against HIV?

The use of condoms during vaginal or anal intercourse, or oral sex, and dental dams during oral sex can offer protection. Annual or semi-annual STI checks and celibacy with partners until they have been screened can be of help.

Genital Warts

Doctors claim that more than 60 per cent of sexually active adults are infected with human papillomavirus (HPV), and it is implicated in cervical cancer.

HPV, or human papillomavirus virus, causes unsightly warts in various parts of the body, especially around the genitals when it is more commonly known as genital warts. However, the types of HPV that cause warts to grow on hands and feet are not the same as those that form warts in the mouth or in the genital area.

Not all HPV viruses cause warts. Some are sub-clinical, which means the virus lives in the skin without any sign or symptom. This is why many people with HPV do not know they have it. Some forms of HPV can also cause cancers of the vulva in women, the penis in men and head, neck and anal cancers in men and women.

HPV is strongly implicated in cervical changes and the development of cervical cancer and it is important for women to maintain regular cervical smear tests. In the UK a test is offered to all women every three five years, from the ages of about 18, or two years after first sexual intercourse, to age 65.

How is it spread?

Through skin-to-skin or mucous membrane contact during oral, vaginal anal or manual sex.

What are its symptoms?

Small, cauliflower-like warts on the vulva, vagina, anus, penis, inside the urethra, or in the throat.

Is it curable?

No. Even when the warts are removed, the virus is still present in the body, and can be transmitted to partners when no warts are present, and cause long-term health problems like cervical cancer. Some people may, however, shed the virus over time.

Will it affect my future fertility or childbirth?

HPV causes cervical cancer, yes your fertility will be affected. HPV can also be transmitted to an infant during childbirth. Worse still HPV can cause cervical cancer, which can be fatal.

How can we protect against HPV?

The use of condoms during vaginal or anal intercourse, or oral sex, and dental dams during oral sex can offer protection. Annual or semi-annual STI checks and celibacy with partners until they have been screened for HPV can be of help.

If the hottest moment you've had in bed lately is the sharing of a nice cup of tea, it may be time to inject some variety. Here, a Relate couples counsellor, suggests 5 ways to help add some zing to your love life.

Be fully present

There may be a zillion and one things on your to-do list, but don't let thoughts of these, and everything else, take you away from the right now with your partner.

Sexual intimacy can be one of the most playful and pleasurable experiences in any relationship - so give yourself 100% permission to be fully present and enjoy it, without letting extraneous thoughts de-rail the moment.

Vary the menu

Avoid getting into a rut by regularly changing the menu and time zones of your lovemaking. We're not suggesting a trip to Fiju here, but the benefits of a flexible - and changing - menu. Options could include: 'Fast food' sex - a steamy quickie that's great for immediate gratification. 'Meat and two veg' - which lasts about half an hour and can deepen the intimacy in your relationship. Then there's the 'take-away' - when you plan to have sex in a place other than your bed. And for the most memorable of 'meals', carve out time for leisurely 'gourmet taster sex', when you agree to give each other an hour or more of pure sensual seduction and pleasure. This is the lingering kind of lovemaking which most couples yearn for, but rarely allow time for.

Pencil him in

Too often, love-making is relegated to the last thing at night, when you're both completely exhausted. So give your love life some priority for a change, even if it means arranging some child care for time alone. Part of the pleasure is in the preparations. So treat yourself to an earthy-scented Shunga massage oil or those new French knickers you fancy. Or get into the right frame of mind by reading an erotic story or two together, such as Five Minute Erotica by Carol Queen.

Go on a whine-free diet

Want to know one of the secrets for keeping your partner hopelessly and passionately in love with you? Quite simply, the key is to help them to feel good about themselves when they are around you. If your relationship has developed its fair share of whining, whinging and nagging, then what you are doing is helping your man to feel small, weak and less capable, and slowly strangling love. The remedy is to put your relationship on a whine-free diet. Cut out the criticisms, the jokey put-downs and sarcasm, and put positive messages in their place.

Prof John Gottman, a leading marriage researcher says happy, long-lasting marriages have five times as many good moments as negative ones in a day. Good moments are often simple, loving gestures - a kiss, hug, a compliment, or sending a loving (or sexy) text message.

So be kind, and generous to your partner. Tell him what you appreciate about him. The more your compliments are from the heart, the more power they'll have to deepen your connection and make your relationship feel healthy and alive.

Libido Alert

If all this talk of sex leaves you cold, and you'd really rather have that nice cuppa in bed, it could be time to figure out why and do something about it. A vanishing libido is the number one female sexual problem, for all sorts of reasons, from hormones to kids to the samey boredom after many years together, to lowered body confidence from the extra years and possibly extra pounds, and the biggest libido killer of all - those unsorted niggles, hurts and resentments which can easily turn you off the whole idea.

Desire has more to do with what is going on in your head than anywhere else. That's why it's crucial to get problems, be they tiny hiccups, or major hurdles, aired and resolved, either on your own, or with the help of a professional counsellor.

Not just body friendly, Glass Sex Toys and Glass Dildos can also offer you a new dimension to your love-life, here's how:

• Glass is solid and very durable
• Crafted in pyrex, they are tough and durable so they won't snap or break, (trust us - they don't!) although we don't recommend you dropping them on a hard-floor!
• Glass is beautiful
• Contemporary designer styles, glass dildos and toys look and feel gorgeous. The introduction of glass into sex-play has been sparked by designer glass blowers experimenting with their styles.
• Glass is perfect for the G-Spot
• Great for G Spot stimulation glass dildos and glass sex toys offer a hardness and firm stimulation that delivers just the right pressure; they are also great for the intense stimulation/pressure needed to help women ejaculate.
• Glass gives thrilling temperature sensations
• Glass is ideal for temperature play; put it into the fridge to make it ice-cool, or pop it into a jug of warm water, to warm it through, glass retains its temperature to prolong the pleasure. Ideal for experimentation you can ice them down or heat them up for sexy shivers and hot sensations. Nerve cells respond to the slightest change from warm to cool, so switching between these two will make orgasm even more intense, sending exquisite jolts throughout the body.
• Glass delivers "Friction-free" Fun
• If from your dildo you want pressure not friction then glass is the ideal material, it is so smooth you may even find you wont need a lube, so it is full-on friction-free fun. The fact that there is no chaffing, catching or rubbing, means you can really focus on the smooth sensations. We love glass for G-Spot stimulation, but the smoothness lends itself really well to anal stimulation too.
• Glass is simple to clean
• Easily cleaned, glass dildos and toys can be cleaned with water and soap or even popped into a dishwasher
• Glass means no phthalates
• Body-Friendly. Many jelly and rubber toys contain phthalates a plastics additive that could be potentially harmful to the body by being absorbed by the skin - with glass you have the ultimate hypo-allergenic safe material. Glass is non porous so it wont harbour bacteria and germs making it an ideal toy for sharing.
• Glass gives powerful vibrations
• Glass transmits vibrations really well, there is no vibration depletion that is sometimes associated with jelly sex toys. Add a bullet to the dildos with a ring in the end, or a vibrating cock ringand enjoy the hard vibration intensity.

If you've ever had the chance to see or read the Vagina Monologues by Eve Ensler you'll probably remember who Bob is. He's the man who loves vaginas. He's a true connoisseur. He loves the way they look, the way they feel, the way they taste, and most of all, he totally adores the way they smell. Bob is the sort of man who can help a woman to see her bits 'down there' in a new light and with more love. He may even help her to appreciate the huge powers her own natural aromas can hold over a lover.

After seeing the Monologues in London, I took a deep breath, and started nosing around. Well not literally, but I became curious and started asking questions. Of friends, friends of friends, and just about anyone who would consider entering into this intimate territory of discussion with me, for the sake of 'research'. And from my growing sample of men and women, it turns out that the world is fairly populated with its share of Bobs. Men who relish and get turned on by a woman's intimate parts and their odours and who are grateful if we don't try to mask them or pretend they're not there. "Don't wash, I'm coming home!" reputedly said Napoleon to Josephine on his way back to Paris from the front.

So while many men savour a woman's unique cassolette, not many women I've spoken to can admit to having a healthy relationship with their own body odours. This isn't surprising, really, in light of the brainwashing . All those media messages to deodorise, mask, block or spray a bit of eau du vamp on all the bits you might expect someone to get close to. Then there's those lame fishy smell jokes which can help to back up our insecurities from an early age. The message is, "It's a swamp down there," and an odiferous one at that.

The last intimate taboo

I warn you. This is not a subject to bring up lightly at your next dinner party. According to Astrid Longhurst, author of Body Confidence: Loving Your Body Is Only a Thought Away talking openly about our own natural body odours may well be breaching one of the last intimate taboos. "It is something which never gets discussed or explored in more intimate detail, and if it does, it is often in whispers that someone should really use a deodorant or pay more attention to personal hygiene." she says.

But maybe not in every social circle. I have a friend who attended a 30th wedding anniversary celebration in California. In front of their friends, family and God, the hubby gave this toast: "There are two things that have gotten me through the last 30 years. My children and the smell of my wife's pussy." Well it was California after all. I'd think twice before trying this in Stoke-on-Trent.

What's healthy and what's not

Make no mistake, all armpits and crotches smell at the end of the day. When sweaty skin is confined under layers of clothes, the atmosphere is like a hothouse, breeding millions of bacteria which start to decay and turn a pleasant natural essence into something rank. Deodorants, sprays and wipes can help to keep the bacteria count in check, but if there's a bad smell coming off you, the first thing worth paying attention to is soap and water.

Now washing on the outside (highly recommended), is not the same as washing on the inside. Douching, which was big in our mothers' days and then again in the 60s and 70s, has now pretty much gone out of fashion, which is just as well as it disturbs your own vaginal ecosystem, killing off the beneficial bacteria and paving the way for take-over by the nasty ones. So in effect, trying to make your insides cleaner by washing will in fact will make them dirtier by encouraging a nasty bacteria invasion. It's better to trust your vagina to do its own housekeeping, advises Stuart Stanton, professor of uro-gynaecology at Portland hospital, London. "The vagina is an amazing organ which is totally self cleaning. After menstruation all traces of blood within the cervix and vagina disappear within 24 hours."

According to Dr. Ian Kerner, a sexolologist and author of She Comes First every woman smells and tastes different. "Some are sweeter than others, some a bit more pungent, and still others are more neutral and nondescript," he says.

Some of these differences could be down to what you like on your pizza - or other things you eat or drink, says Dr. George Dodd, an aroma scientist and biochemist based in Wester Ross, Scotland. "In countries like Thailand and Cambodia, where they eat lots of green peppers and lemon grass, their body odour is remarkably different than in the west. And research shows that eating truffles, which has had a reputation for being an erotic food, temporarily increases the level of one particular attracting pheromone in your body," he says.

If you haven't gone through the menopause and you're not on the Pill, your smell will also vary with your cycle, and your least smelly time of the month will be straight after your period until ovulation", according to Elizabeth Topp, author of Vaginas An Owner's Manual "In this stage, vaginal secretions tend to be clear and thin, like egg whites. After ovulation, however, your secretions become creamy and I'm sorry to say, a little more stinky. Finally, as you approach your period, the Ph or acidity balance of your vagina changes, and so does the smell," she says.

Your menstrual blood will have its own earthy aroma, and this will remain a subtle one so long as you don't forget to change tampons or pads. It shouldn't be embarrassingly strong or something to worry about, unless, that is, you're planning to swim in some shark-infested waters during your period. Word has it, that that's not such a good idea, as a shark's nose is apparently far more sensitive than a human's.

Then there's the delicate matter of unprotected sex. Semen has its own unique smell and will vary a bit from man to man. (Something about marking his territory comes to mind.) But whatever your man's fluids smell like, they will be highly alkaline, with a PH of around 8. This makes it more alkaline than any other body fluid, including blood, sweat, spit or tears. So for several hours after unprotected intercourse, the overall PH of the vagina shoots up, and so does the strength of its smell. "It's OK for the male, he just walks away," comments Professor Stanton. "But the woman's vagina has to contend with 2 or 3 ccs of fluid which is a lot if you were to look at in a syringe - and this can have quite an impact on the way your vagina will smell for a good 24 hours or so."

Should your pleasant natural smell change from something like fresh peach yoghurt or a good Merlot to something more like two day old fish - or skunk - your body is trying to get your attention, so take notice, advises Professor Stanton. "Infection changes a healthy pleasant vaginal odour, and some infections have a very fishy smell to them. Take this cue from your body and go see a doctor."

Good Reasons to Love the Way You Smell

• Despite the millions of pounds spent by the perfume industry to convince us otherwise, pheromones are nature's love drug, which trigger our animal instincts of attraction. "A woman's natural smell is designed to arouse men who are biologically compatible, so it'll help you find the guy of you're dreams," says Emily Dubberley, author of Things a Woman Should know about Seduction. At its root, this is all about producing healthy and robust offspring, but even if you are well past the time of wanting babies, it still sends powerful signals of attraction which work on libido and sexual compatibilities.
• Take a good sniff of yourself when you're in need of some confidence boosting, as your pheromones don't just work on your partner, says Dr. George Dodd. "Inhaling your own smells can help you to feel more emotionally warm, receptive and powerful with the opposite sex, and will even work to change your behaviour to be more outgoing," he says.
• During sexual arousal, your apocrine glands, found in the armpits and the genital regions, emit a special sexual fragrance to keep your man turned on and his libido on full throttle, which is part of a primitive odour-signalling system, according to Desmond Morris, the well-known expert on mammalian behaviour, in his recent book The Naked Woman. "Although males are not consciously aware of the erotic odours these glands produce, their secretions do make a massive unconscious impact that aids sexual arousal."
• Our sense of smell has a direct connection to the part of the brain responsible for pleasurable emotions and libido, called the limbic system. It's also strongly associated with memory, so if you always keep things natural with your lover, or wear the same perfume, then eventually, just smelling one of your T-shirts (or your underwear!) will trigger a strong romantic reminder of you with your partner, suggests author Emily Dubberley.
• It's the ultimate form of self-acceptance, says Astrid Longhurst. "Being okay with your own smell is essentially about being okay with who you are. It's about owning all of you - the good, the bad and the downright whifffy! It's about using fragrance to accentuate your own sense of pleasure and enhance your mood, but not having to mask or disguise the way you smell."

Here's what some of you think:

Strong perfume conjours up memories of hugs from elderly, big-bosomed, Aunties. Well-meant gestures, but "icky", and a real turn-off for me. By contrast, a gentle whiff of a woman's natural scent, or the slightest hint of a very very subtle added fragrance, which you only discover when you press your nose into her hair or neck, is lovely. It's a shared, intimate, secret - a whisper rather than an announcement.

- Mark Dealtry, 51, Liphook, Hampshire.

There's nothing wrong with sweat. It's a sign of life and vitality and can be very pleasant on a woman. It's the smell of stale sweat on clothes that grates on the nostril. Having said that, I'd still prefer a bit of armpit essence to an overdose of heavy perfume. A little subtle scent is fine if it makes you feel better but once you've left the room, the scent should too. If not, you've put on too much. That's why perfume costs so much. To encourage you to go easy on the stuff! As for the smells 'down there,' if girls are made of sugar and spice why do they smell of anchovies? A lot of women don't want men to give them oral sex not because, I assume, not because they don't like it, but because they're worried about the smell. But the best bet is NOT perfume - anchovies plus the scent of fruit, flowers or the animal secretions used to make perfume merely creates a smell not unlike that of an unplugged fridge in a student house. Yuk. Just have a quick shower beforehand.

- Jim Pollard, editor of malehealth.co.uk

I first lived with someone at the age of 22 and remember the sheer delight of sharing a bed, the cuddles, the hugs, the warmth of just being together. One of the first things I noticed about the rhythm of our new life was the way in which the smell of her breath changed on occasions. It was not long before I realized that this was tied into her periods. It was not an unpleasant smell, just different in some subtle way. Eventually I plucked up the courage to mention this and soon she relied on me to tell her, two or three days in advance, just when her period was coming. Very handy - as she was not entirely regular - and amazingly intimate.

- Robert Blackburn, 50, Clapham, London.

Eating the tropical fruit papaya makes my girlie bits smell and taste very fruity indeed even at period time. Ever since my partner and I discovered this, he keeps buying me this delicious fruit, which I believe is loaded with vitamins A and C.

- Ruth Posnanska, 48, North London.

I love the scent of a woman, and celebrate it in all its guises, and especially those smells that come from all her secret parts, even when she is at an inconvenient part of her cycle. I almost never find any smell from a woman offensive, unless she is grubby and unwashed. Covering her lovely natural smell with strong cheap perfume will annoy me, I don't enjoy being around a chemical factory, and a cheap one at that! However the right perfume that accentuates her natural bodily smell will drive me wild, every time.

- Tony Batchelar, Brighton.

I think its quite mad the way our society tries to erase our smell. If it's not deodorant, it's hideously strong perfume or scented panty liners. I love my smell and men have commented to me that its lovely to smell me. The only scents that I can tolerate are natural ones, such as a gentle dab of essential oils. Most perfumes make me want to heave and move away from anyone wearing them. Natural odours are best, but never stale ones. Only fresh, clean ones!

- Julia Trainer, age 47, Hove.

As I was growing from a black girl into a black woman, I was taught to scrub everything as hard as I could. The idea was to disinfect every bit of me which had an odour, and then dust on the talc so I would smell sweet and fresh and powdered. The message was that my natural odours were not nice and needed to be eliminated. My attitude changed in my 30s with my politics. I stopped wearing stilettos, turned to more comfortable shoes, stop straightening my hair, and stopped all that over-the-top scrubbing! I found that it's wonderful to smell fresh and clean and to breathe in all my natural aromas without powdering over them or trying to eliminate them.

- Yvonne Ritchie, Age 40, Hammersmith

I notice that when I work in corporate office environments, my armpits, particularly my right one, start to give out a disgusting metallic smell of onions, which no deodorant or amount of washing can control. The solution to this problem has been, not to work in corporate offices! I have decided I am allergic to that environment.

- Marion McCarthy, 43, Edinburgh

There are definite hygiene risks involved in anal play and anal sex so please take extra care, here Passion8 will help you maintain a high level of hygiene, so you can relax and enjoy the extra pleasurable sensations you will recieve from anal play.

The anus, unlike the vagina is not self-cleaning, it usually contains germs. Some of these germs can cause the following:

• Vaginal discharge
• Urinary infection
• Food poisoning and other related ailments.

We recommend you stick to the following guidelines:

• Never transfer a penis or toy from the anus to the vagina or mouth, if alternating the use, we recommend you use a condom on the penis or toy for anal use that can be easily removed for other stimulation.
• It is advisable for the recipient to go to the loo at least an hour beforehand.
• Always use a good lubricant - the tissue lining the anus is very delicate and the anus does not produce any natural lubrication.
• Some people like to douche their anus before and/or after with warm soapy water, our top anal douching tips are below.

Enemas - How To Have The Best Anal Enema:

The 19th Century French used enemas up to four times a day. Enemas were thought to improve the complexion, add vigour and cure impotence (erectile dysfunction). Herbs were mixed with water as too was tobacco, which would give the person a rush to which they soon became addicted. Today coffee enemas are widely used in health clinics and by people wanting to perform deep cleansing routines and rid the body of compacted waste matter. Coffee enemas have featured as a main stay of the cleansing routine in the TV programme "Spa of Embarrassing Illnesses" - achieving great results!

Whether you have an enema as a method of detoxing the body, to achieve maximum anal freshness or for anal play and pleasure this five piece enema kit is all you need. There's nothing better than a slow warm stream of water into the rectum, or by the prostate and it's easy with the Passion8 Enema Kit.

Exercise caution when performing an anal enema by following these Passion8 tips:

• Use a good lubricant on the nozzle and the anus
• The enema bag should be held no higher than the waist; this allows the water to flow gently. The sensual stimulus is caused by the stream of water so the flow of water is prolonged for as long as possible.
• Warm water, soap, alcohol or other liquids can damage tissue if they are not diluted.
• Letting water pass through the nozzle before insertion into the anus avoids air getting into the rectum which could cause cramping and possible embolism
• Preliminary enemas are used by people who are embarrassed about the expulsion of feces and wish to maintain a high level of hyguiene before anal play.
• Enemas are also used by some couples as part of the anal play and pleasure.

Anal Douche Tips from Passion8:

Maintaining proper hygiene is not only important for an enjoyable anal sex experience, but your health as well. Cleaning can be overdone, however so follow our Passion8 tips :

• Simple warm water will clean effectively
• Steer clear of internal cleansing products; they contain harsh ingredients not formulated for the anus. Passion8 recommends using Bio Fem Actigel whilst it is formulated for vaginal cleaning, we have found that it is also ideal for the delicate tissues of the anus.
• Avoid over wiping or rubbing the area, this may cause irritation
• Avoid perfumed wipes they may cause irritation. If you must use a wipe, choose an over the counter one that is formulated for anal use, a toilet tissue one is ideal
• We also recommend the use of Apronal. Apronal is a unique premium herbal-based anal spray, designed to make anal fun more comfortable without desensitising and dulling the pleasurable experience for both partners.

Kerry frequently watches porn with her boyfriend and is a sextoy tester for Passion8.com "Watching porn is a good way of expressing your fantasies without actually doing them... instead of having a threesome my boyfriend and I watch it in a film which still turns us on without the complications..."

Relationship expert Karen Krizanovich says "Using porn means you're admitting you have a sexual nature and that's healthy. No relationship can give you everything you need and that includes sex..."

A Sex Toy Like No Other

I suppose you might call me an experienced porn viewer. From raiding my brother's stash of Swedish blue movies back in the 70's, up to the present day I have seen most genres. From bukkake to Gang Bang (remember Annabel Chong's record gang-bang of 251?) and a lot more in between. Today, here at Passion8 we have a dedicated section of "Couple Friendly Films". Many couples, men and women find that adult films can really make their love life sizzle, and they gain valuable hints and tips. Watching adult films can be a powerful aphrodisiac for many - a different type of sex toy, but one that is ultimately just as pleasurable as one with batteries. Explicit visual stimulation has such a powerful arousal trigger, especially sex acts, scenes and fantasy scenarios, by triggering a fantasy you both might then want to try it out for yourselves, expanding your own sexual repertoire.

Porn DVD's and the Law

Passion8 is no longer allowed to send hardcore (R18) DVD films by mail order, since a government ruling in 2004, but we can sell the watered-down versions at Certificate 18. Hardcore films certificated as R18 are only available from licensed premises, with proactive law enforcement, this means that you can only buy R18 from your High Street Sex Shop or online from a non UK supplier. As most of us know, unless you are lucky enough to live near to one of the trendier new style shops, you are then relegated to shopping in a dingy shop, with blacked-out windows. Historically these shops do not cater for "Couple friendly Films" like Passion8, so you will be greeted with a plethora of "in-your-face" (literally in many cases) film covers - nothing is left to the imagination. Where does that leave those of us who want an erotic film, without the graphic triple facial cum shot?

Historically certificate 18 films were known as "shadow fucking". Soft-core referred to the non-explicit version of a porn film, so that penetration, genital penetration or ejaculation is not shown. However since the deregulation of certain sex acts in R18 films, we have seen the content of certificate 18's get significantly stronger, the resulting effect is that they really are now a viable erotic alternative to hard core.You can see our range of 'couple-friendly' adult films at Adult DVD's. However if you want to see the very best, toe-curling, no-holesbarred (hardcore R18) action with FREE trailers and scenes, then take a look at Passion8.tv.

Fast & easy film-streaming when you want it!

Passion8.tv. is the safe and easy way to watch porn online. With over 8,000 films, and over 50,000 different scenes, we know that there will be something there for you!

Check out the Best Rated section, and you too can watch, here and now, films that are the best-rated adult-films in the world. It is not based here in the UK so you'll be billed in US dollars, but all the films are fully compliant with US and UK viewing and streaming laws and regulations, and of course, you have the Passion8 guarantee of quality and integrity.

Enjoy your viewing together!

Some choose a slim vibrator for comfort; others prefer a chunkier Butt plug for added “fullness”. Special sets such as Julie Ashtons Anal Kit and the Kobe Tai anal kit have a vibrator with a number of attachments for added fun which are ideal for beginners and experimenters alike. The vibrations increase the stimulation, some men choose G spot vibrators, which are curved at the tip – they make great prostate stimulators. Opt for a vibrator or anal toy with a large base – something that won't get lost in the heat of the moment. The Pencil Slim Vibrator is great for beginners, as it is long and slim, and smooth for anal pleasuring.

Anal Beads - How do I use Anal Beads?

We always get asked how do I use anal beads and how do I insert anal beads? Follow our simple guidelines for anal beads and you too will be enjoying deeper more pleasurable orgasms.

Used for anal pleasuring using an in-and-out motion, and/or pulled out at the point of orgasm to heighten the experience.

One tester wrote, "It is like a rush when my orgasm comes upon me, when the beads are pulled out the feeling is sensational and my anus and vagina convulses in spasms - nothing beats it!"

Anal beads are either on a string, a cord or fused together in silicone, stimulation can be had from inserting and removing the anal beads, or from vibrational stimulation. The sensation of the anal beads being pulled from the anus is highly pleasurable for some, with each anal bead heightening the intensity. Lubricate the anus or anal beads well, with a specialist anal lubricant (as you must with all anal sex toys)

What are butt plugs should I choose vibrating or non vibrating?

Full of sensitive nerve endings the anus when stimulated can heighten sexual arousal and trigger mind-blowing orgasms. Butt Plugs are ideal for giving a "fuller" feeling and lots of our women testers (who enjoyed anal fun) reported they liked to feel both their anus and vagina full to orgasm, whether with a partner or during masturbation. Lots of men enjoy butt plugs because it stimulates their prostate gland which intensifies their orgasm. Butt plugs are hygienically crafted in body friendly smooth material, and are flared at the ends (safety hilt) so that when the action gets hot, it won't disappear! These styles have been specially designed for anal pleasure, short and stubby for maximum stimulation, smooth for easy insertion, with a recess at the base and a safety hilt. The recess allows your anal sphincter to close around the toy keeping it snugly in place. If you want to try a larger toy, opt for a vibrating version because the vibrations help to relax the sphincter making it easier to insert. If you prefer the fuller feeling then a butt plug is ideal you can choose a vibrating or a non vibrating version If you want to try a larger toy, opt for a vibrating version because the vibrations help to relax the sphincter making it easier to insert. Always use lots of lube, because the anus has no natural lubrication, and if you're a first-timer try our new de-sensitising anal gel. Alternatively if your butt plug does not vibrate, then simply hold your vibrator against it, the vibrations will be transmitted along the plug giving you extra stimulation. If you are looking for a Butt Plug for a fixed sensation (i.e. you don't want it thrusting in and out) choose one of the diamond shaped ones. If you prefer to have the in and out thrusting motion, select a smooth styled one, that is wider at the base only, you'll find this more pleasurable. As always - use lots of lube, because the anus has no natural lubrication.

So not quite 80 places, but if you want a weekend of debauchery and no-strings (OK, maybe G-strings) attached fun then read on!

Our guide to the eight best sex festivals from around the world is the ultimate place for any man's stag-do/ birthday/ divorce/ mid-life crisis.

Why mess about going on a last minute deal to Magaluf hoping you'll get lucky when you can hop on a flight straight to where the action is!

Beards, beer and boobs, what more could you want?!

Kinky Copenhagen

Copenhagen, Denmark- October

The place where dreams are made of if you're into fetish and S & M. The Danish capital is mad for a bit of leather and latex, and you can guarantee there'll be a stall for anything your twisted imagination can think of. The festival focuses on fringe sexual subculture, but if you prefer your sex with whipped cream and not a whipped arse, you'll find strippers and porn lords easily.

Love Parade

Berlin, Germany- July

This isn't an official sex event, but that's a mere technicality- it has enough party-harders and beautiful people to be a prime spot for some action. It's the world's biggest techno festival and celebrates unity and love after the collapse of the Berlin Wall. Over 1.5 million loved-up, sweaty young adults dance from dusk till dawn so even if you're not a fan of techno, you'll have plenty to do!

Spread your love in Berlin, but do it the safe way with these Pleasuremax condoms.

Kutemajrvi

Kangasniemi, Finland- July

You may not be able to pronounce the name of this festival, but you'll certainly remember it once you've been! Kutemajrvi is the more intellectual of these festivals, as professionals give lectures on sexuality, and stands display revolutionary sex technology and gadgets. But you know what they say- good things come to those who wait. As the sun sets the fun begins! Amazingly hot dancers and performers take to the stage and do things you've only ever dreamed of. Try your luck and bed a Finnish beauty at Kutemajrvi,the only world you'll need to know is 'Kyllä', which means yes!

Ensure you get lucky tonight with these masculine scented Male Pheromones -proven to have a psychologically arousing effect on the opposite sex. You can't argue with nature!

Hot D'Or

Cannes, France- May

While the world's superstars and glitterati line up at the world's most sophisticated film festival, another much steamier and sluttier one unfolds a few miles away! The Hot D'Or is the Oscars of the porn world, where the multibillion dollar industry bigwigs gather annually to give each other a pat on the back for fuelling frenzied masturbation and fantasies across the globe. Women are armoured in silicone and stilettos, nudity is inevitable and live sex acts are an aperitif for what happens later. With the location and time of year it can be pretty expensive, so if you've got a wad of cash in your trousers as well as a dick, get yourself to Hot D'Or!

International Erotic Film Festival

Barcelona, Spain- September

Less exclusive and expensive than Cannes, this film festival has a mission to break the taboos associated with porn and sex products. So why not support their mission by taking part! Porno's are shown throughout the festival and the actors themselves are there to "discuss" their "work". If it all gets a bit too arty-farty for your liking, there is a lingerie show, sex product fair and a fetish party. Oh and before we forget, girl-on-girl live sex shows! All in the name of art, eh! Why not have the real thing before you go? Our Porn Star Range of Fleshlights allow you to practise before you've even met them to discuss the ins and outs of your motion picture!

Nudes-A-Poppin' Pageant

Ponderosa Sun Club, Indiana- July & August

Sounds like a badly written rap song, but this festival is based in Indiana's most infamous nudist resort and has naked gorgeous ladies queuing up to be the next Miss Nude! This pageant isn't your typical all-American sweetheart type, Nudes-A-Poppin' features erotic dancing, exhibitionism and totally nude ladies just walking around. You'll be like the proverbial kid in a sweetshop this summer! Be a cut above the rest to and give the pageant winner the real prize- your massive dick! Enlarge your manhood with a great new Penis Pump

Erotica

London, England- November

Erotica is the biggest erotic festival in the world, which presents sexuality and lifestyle miscellany in a relaxed and casual atmosphere. By day, stalls and tables from over 200 exhibitors sell everything from corsets to cock rings, and by night the place is entertained by live shows and frivolity. There's also a singles meeting point where the young, free and horny are looking for a one-night only companion. This three day event has been on the go now for 12 years and is an amazing experience, and because it's in good old Blighty, travel expenses won't be a kick in the balls. Erotica is a mammoth three-day event, sure sure your stamina doesn't flail with Max Stamina it does exactly what it says on the tin!

Exotic Erotica Ball

San Francisco, California- October

The Number One adult festival in the world! Billing itself as 'part Mardi Gras, part burlesque and part rock concert, yet totally unique', the Exotic Erotica Ball has an Expo where all things sex is sold and seen. The Ball is self explanatory, but swap ball gowns for latex basques and you're half way there! This October hosts the 30th Anniversary of the event, and is set to celebrate in style with dance parties, strip shows and mind-blowing sex shows topped off by beautiful women bathing inside giant cocktail glasses. It's like Disney Land for over 21's, make sure you go on as many rides as possible!

Hold on tight, it''s gonna be a bumpy ride! Make it smooth and sensual with one of our many super slick lubricants.

Pheromones are well known in the animal kingdom, they are usually odourless and cannot be detected by the nose, but have a profound effect on the brain. Pheromones produce powerful responses in only tiny amounts. In her book "Increase Your Sex Drive", Dr Sarah Brewer explains, "The word pheromone is derived from the Greek, pherin (to bring or transfer to) and hormon (to excite). The term literally means to bring or give excitement and these chemicals appear to live up to their name."

Dr Brewer adds "Pheromones are volatile substances that are produced by one individual to produce powerful sexual or behavioral responses in other members of the same species."

Human pheromones are known to be secreted in small amounts in skin oils around the nipples, under the armpits and around the genital area. they are related to DHEA and act at a primitive, subconscious level to attract the opposite sex. Evolution has designed us to secrete pheromones when we see someone we find attractive and we are sexually aroused.. the recipient who picks up the scent then starts releasing a few pheromones of their own.

For Men - Boost Your Sex Drive AND Attract The Opposite Sex

Pheromones are therefore an important key to human sexual attraction and although they are mostly undetectable at a conscious level, have powerful effects on mood. When researchers hid male pheromones under certain chairs in a classroom, the women tended to gather around the chairs with the hidden male pheromones. Similarly when a number of theatre programmes were sprayed with male pheromones and left on empty chairs along with unsprayed programmes, more women took the sprayed papers with them after the show than took the unsprayed ones.

Pheromones work by increasing the wearer's attractiveness to the opposite sex and to attract warmer more intimate behaviour as a result. In a double blind placebo controlled experiment men using the active pheromone enjoyed significantly increased sexual activity and attractiveness to the opposite sex compared to those using the inactive placebo. They were found to indulge significantly more hugging, kissing, petting and sex than before the study.

• 74% of men using the pheromone reported increased romantic attention from women
• 47% of male users reported having sex more often than before
• 41% of users kissed and petted more than before the study
• 35% slept with a romantic partner more frequently than before the study
• 35% of pheromone users went out on dates more often.

Women users of the female pheromone may not increase the number of times they have sex but are more likely to have regular sex, and report that men are more attentive, courteous and pleasant, while husbands tend to become more playful, affectionate and cuddly.

For Women - Boost Your Sex Drive AND have more Sex.

Dr Brewer says to women "If your sex drive is low, dab a male sex pheromone under your nose or add it to your partners aftershave. If your sex drive is fine, but your man's could do with a boost, add a female sex pheromone to your favourite perfume"

The pheromones will promote sexual attractiveness and if you wear the pheromone designed for the opposite sex, may help you to boost a low sex drive - even where this is due to hormone changes, hysterectomy or advancing years.

Clinicians report that 70% of women using pheromones participate in increased sexual activity compared with those not using pheromones".

© Extracts taken from Increase Your Sex Drive by Dr Sarah Brewer (sadly out of print, if you can get a second hand copy do so, the information is invaluable

Maintaining a healthy and vigorous penis is maybe one of the more important things all men should be mindful of. Do your penis a favour by considering the following suggestions...

Eat a healthy, well-balanced diet

To ensure normal erectile function, you need to keep the continuous flow of blood to the penis by taking care of the arteries that supply it. Consume a high fiber diet, low in saturated fats and you can be sure to prevent or reduce the build up of fatty deposits that narrow and clog arteries. Stay away from animal fats, sugar, fried or junk foods.

Quit smoking

Smoking constricts blood vessels and leads to a build of plaque in the arteries that supply blood to the penis. This results in diminished erectile function, shrinkage of the penis, and impotence later in life.

Avoid excessive alcohol consumption and dangerous drugs

Alcohol and/or drugs puts you in great risk of impotence or erectile dysfunction.

Exercise

Exercising is good for your overall health. Try brisk walking, running, cycling, or swimming for at least 30 minutes a day, three times a week.

Take nutritional supplements

Certain vitamins and minerals are good for maintaining general penile health, such as Vitamin A, Vitamin B complex, Vitamin C, Vitamin E, Chromium, Zinc, and L-arginine. While certain herbs such as Ginkgo biloba, Ginseng, Damania, Sarsaparilla, Wild yam, Saw palmetto, Dong quai, Gotu kola, Hydrangea root, and Pygeum, are known to be particularly helpful for weak erections or erectile dysfunction. Be sure to consult with your doctor first.

Stimulate your penis

Maintain healthy penis and prostate circulation by having regular erections and ejaculations. Natural penis exercises not only ensure good circulation but can also aid in penis enlargement, both in length and girth. This works best when coupled with the use of an enlargement device, penis enlargement pills, and semen volumizers.

If you thought sex toys were only for women and consisted of intimidating rabbit-like vibrators, you were wrong!

If you didn't already know, sex toys for men are totally acceptable these days, whether you want a helping hand in the masturbation department, or whether you want to build stamina with our Fleshlights, Passion8 has it all. Be better in the sack and have a good time whilst honing your 'skill'; you know what they say…practise makes perfect!

Fleshlight - The Sex Simulator

Revolutionary in the world of male sex toys, Fleshlights are to men what the Rampant Rabbit is to women.

Fleshlights were invented over a decade ago in Texas by former police officer Steven A. Shubin, who had a period of forced abstinence whilst his wife was in a high-risk pregnancy. As sex was off the table, Steve looked for other ways to satisfy his needs. Frustrated by the lack of option on offer at his local sex shop, Shubin set out to create his own toy and subsequently invented the Fleshlight which he later patented as a "sperm collection device".

He created the company Interactive Life Forms (ILF) in 2006 which owns and markets the Fleshlight brand and launched in America in 2007; ILF now has estimated annual sales of $3,400,000. With over 1 Million units sold, the Fleshlight is arguably the #1 selling male sex toy in the world!

Why Fleshlight?

The Fleshlight is so popular amongst men because the sensation and feeling you get from using it is the closest thing to actual vaginal penetration. The top secret non-latex, non-cyberskin, non-silicone and non-phlatate material creates the same warmth, suction and tightness you feel whilst having sex with a woman!

There are variations of the Fleshlight brand to create different sensations, such as the Fleshlight Pornstars Fleshlight Butt to simulate anal penetration, Fleshlight Stamina Training Unit which has a tighter inner sleeve to build up your stamina in preparation for the real deal.

Whether you're in a relationship or enjoying the life of bachelorhood, every man needs to own a Fleshlight; one million men can't be wrong!

TENGA - The Masturbator

Designed and made in Japan, a TENGA is a masturbating device with multiple models to feature different sensations for the user.

It was released in 2006 in Japan by its founder Mr. Matsumoto whose ethos was to 'revolutionise the realm of adult goods' by creating a male sex toy that didn't look cheap. By 2007, TENGA had sold over 2 million units and is now the most popular male sex toy in Japan; it's extremely popular over here too!

Why Tenga?

They look as good as they feel- Mr. Matsumoto got it spot on with the design and packaging of TENGA: it's stylish and wouldn't look out of place on a supermarket shelf next to the deodorant! The variety of different sensations keeps you coming back for more, the ingenious engineering of these bad boys mean that you can buy a TENGA to simulate anything from the sensation of a TENGA Rolling Head - blow job to TENGA Air Cushion - woman-on-top sex!

TENGA masturbators can only be used once (for hygiene and technical reasons), but with prices from just £11.99 it's well worth it.

Alternatively, why not treat yourself to the TENGA Flip Hole it's the only male masturbator that even 'competes' with the Fleshlight. TENGA Flip Hole is cost-effective because it's reusable and focuses on bringing you maximum pleasure via features like the vacuum pump and pressure intensity control.

ANEROS - The Prostate Massager

Yes, you put it up your bum, but don't be alarmed! Developed in 1996 as a device for prostate massage, the Aneros was intended as an alternative way to treat a variety of prostate problems such as prostatitis and benign prostatic hyperplasia.

It's now used by men of all sexual orientations as a way of massaging the prostate (known as the P-Spot), which if done properly, can lead to a non-ejaculatory body quaking orgasms. Massaging the prostate frequently can allow for multiple orgasms, and is actually good for you!

By milking the prostate, any toxins which have accumulated in the prostate gland can be flushed out and can decrease your chances of getting prostate cancer. As this is the most common cancer in men in the UK, the Aneros is a must-have!

Why Aneros?

The Aneros is the world's only medically patented prostate massager and is precisely anatomically designed to massage and stimulate the prostate. The result? Mind bending, bed shaking orgasms that we guarantee you have never felt before! The creators of the Aneros spent years of painstaking research and to design a product that fits every curve and angle of the male form and now comes in a variety of designs to offer different sensations.

The Aneros is meant to be used completely hands-free, simply insert it and the sphincter muscles in your anus will do all the hard work for you!

Cock rings were originally used to treat impotence or erectile dysfunction (ED) by keeping the penis hard. However their medical uses have been quickly overtaken by more recreational ones, so today at Passion8 we have a range of cock rings to help strengthen and maintain an erection, as well as cock rings to give clitoral and penile stimulation during love making, eg Cock rings for solo or shared stimulation.

The benefits of a good Cock Ring

• It Looks Good - Many Men and Women like the look, it can enhance the "angle of the dangle"
• It feels Good - Many men like the feel of having their cock and/or balls encircled, (depending on the style of ring) tight rings in particular can feel like a firm sexy grip.
• Some styles give bigger and better erections - Cock rings help men get bigger and better erections, that last longer and feel much harder.

When a man gets an erection the blood flows into the chambers of the penis through his arteries on the inside of his shaft, when the erection subsides, the blood flows out of the penis through the veins on the outside, wearing a cock ring can help to keep more blood inside the shaft and stop a man losing his erection.

• Cock Rings secure a larger erection for up to 30 mins - Many men like to use a cock ring if they use a Vacuum Developer, it means that the larger erection can be maintained for up to 30 minutes.
• Magnetic Cock Rings can help increase circulation - Many men report that Magnetic cock rings help to increase the blood flow to the penis and with prolonged use encourage easier stronger erections. One of the principal problems with ageing is the way arteries harden and thicken. When that happens less blood circulates through them. That means the tissues that depend on them for supply start to suffer starvation and oxygen shortage. They don't work so well. And organs that produce vital chemicals - as the testicles produce testosterone, suffer along with all the others. Magnetic therapy has been proven to help increase the circulation to the penis. Examples of magnetic rings are Magnetic Cock Ring, the Blakoe Energiser Ring III (which is a Grade 1 registered medical device in Australia and Europe) and the Pink Magnetic cock ring.
• A Cock Rings takes away the pressure to perform - Cock Rings enables a man to feel free to enjoy the moment, not worry about his erection and keeping it. Many men report that it means they can relax and enjoy the sensations rather than worry about performance or losing their erection.
• Cock Rings can intensify orgasm, especially the vibrating variety - Many men report that wearing a cock ring intensifies the sensation of their orgasm.
• Cock Rings can intensify orgasm for women - Vibrating cock rings can add more stimulation for women enabling them in many cases to orgasm through penetration alone.

Cock Rings for harder erections

We have different types of Cock Rings have a look at the following:

• Cock Rings For shared stimulation these can be vibrating cock rings, or a penis ring to stimulate her clitoris and
• Cock Rings for Bigger and Harder Erections these help to make his erection last longer, making it a firmer harder erction.
• Blakoe Penis Ring Magnetic Cock Ring can be worn during the day to improve circulation, prevent premature ejaculation, stop dribbling and improve his sperm count. The Blakoe Cock Ring is a Grade 1 registered medical device.

Co Founder and RELATE therapist Julia Cole says "Creating a relaxed, sensuous environment to enjoy your vibrator is important, whether you intend to use it alone or with a partner."

Try the following suggestions to create the right mood and get the most out of your vibrator.

• Start by setting the scene in the room you wish to use. Soft lighting or candles will create a warm and relaxed atmosphere. You may also like to use an aromatherapy oil burner to perfume the room with a seductive scent. Choose musky aromas to arouse your sexual senses.
• Play some music to create the right mood. You could choose a romantic song to put you in the right frame of mind, or a track with a strong bass beat that will match your growing sexual excitement.
• Think about where you are going to use the vibrator. If you are seated on a chair, sofa or bed, cover it with a slippery satin or a crisp cotton sheet, a soft blanket or a duvet. Different kinds of fabric will give different skin sensations - soft and gentle or sensuous and caressing - that can add to your arousal.
• Once you have arranged the ideal venue, concentrate on yourself. Bathing or showering beforehand can help your skin to feel smooth and sexy, especially if you use a light bath or shower oil.
• Spend time caressing and stroking your body all over before you start to use the EB Vibrator. If you want your vibrator to warm up; switch it on to the maximum setting for a few minutes ahead of use (excluding the Isis or Chandra as they are both fixed speeds). It will become pleasantly warm and ready for you to use it.

For Women - Using your Emotional Bliss Vibrator

We're all unique.

Different things work for different women, so these are only suggestions on how to use your Vibrator. Take time and have fun finding out what works for you, just be patient, relax and enjoy!

• Try wearing silky pants or a thong and run your vibrator over your vagina and clitoris.
• When you begin to feel aroused, take off your underwear and squeeze a little EB Lubricant on your vaginal lips and clitoris. Use a circling motion over the whole area, but pay particular attention around your clitoris.
• Now try a circling movement around your vaginal lips and up and around your clitoris and back down again to your vaginal lips. As you become more excited, apply a little more pressure and speed to heighten the sensations.
• Slide your vibrator backwards and forwards over you vaginal lips and clitoris. Then try gently circling the clitoris for more intense stimulation.
• As you become more aroused, place the head of your vibrator directly on your clitoris and alternate pressing and releasing your hold - play around with the vibration settings to find the perfect vibration.
• Once you feel highly aroused, circle the clitoris repeatedly with your vibrator. When you feel close to orgasm, press your vibrator on and around the clitoris.

With a partner - Using your Emotional Bliss Vibrator

Let your imagination be your guide.

Emotional Bliss vibrators are designed for women, but your partner can join in the action too. Incorporating your vibrator into your foreplay and lovemaking can be a lot of fun for both of you.

Don't just concentrate on the obvious areas - experiment using your vibrator on some other highly sensitive erogenous zones, try stroking each other's nipples with the vibrator. Areas like the inside of the elbow, the back of the knee and the nape of the neck are also highly charged with sensitive nerve endings that respond well to the vibrations.

During penetrative sex, if the woman holds her vibrator against her clitoris while her male partner enters her vagina from the front or behind you will both feel the vibrations. Most men enjoy the vibration sensation on their testicles. Using the EB Lubricant, stroke the underneath of the scrotum for added stimulation during oral sex.

Or you could try very gently caressing the head of the penis with the vibrator.

Many men also enjoy having the area around the buttocks and anus stimulated. (Always clean your vibrator after any kind of anal contact, as infections can easily spread from the anus to the vagina or mouth).

The Possibilities are Endless. Have fun Exploring!

For a Man - Using your Emotional Bliss Vibrator

Emotional Bliss recognise that vibrators can heighten men's sensations and sexual fulfilment as well as their partner's.

Whether you're on your own or having fun with your partner, Emotional Bliss has come up with some techniques that should definitely spice things up for you. And remember; don't forget the lubricant, as the slipperier things are, the more enhanced your pleasure.

Techniques to Try

Explore your body: Rather than bringing yourself to orgasm as fast as possible, it can be very satisfying to delay things and pay the rest of your body some attention.

Try stroking your inner arms and thighs, the back of your neck or your nipples, which are often just as sensitive in men as they are in women.

Then lead down and gently tease your scrotum, perineum and eventually your anus.

When you no longer have the patience to carry on, then directly stimulate your penis.

Vary your grip: Varying your grip on your penis when you masturbate can create new sensations and may even feel as if someone else is doing it for you. Try tightening then relaxing your handgrip, using both hands, or even reversing your grip. Even just changing the hand you normally use can dramatically change the sensation, as can varying the speed from fast to a breathtaking slow.

Different Positions for One

The Forehand: This is the one that most men do - the ‘missionary' of solo sex. Wrap your fingers around the shaft of your penis so your thumb is at the head. As you glide your hand up and down the shaft of the penis, your thumb will give direct stimulation to the coronial ridge (the underside of your penis where your foreskin is, or for circumcised men, where it used to be attached) - your most sensitive spot!

The Backhand: This is like the Forehand, but in the opposite direction. Instead of having your thumb at the head of your penis, it will now be at the bottom of the shaft with your fingers, giving you a different sensation.

An Extra Hand: Try sitting on your hand until it goes completely numb. Then begin to masturbate and you will feel as if someone else is doing it for you. It's one of those old wives' tales that's actually true!

Pelvic Thrusts: Hold your penis with one hand at the bottom and then make your other hand into a fist. Then thrust your penis into your fist by lifting your pelvis up and down in a rhythmic motion. If you use plenty of lubrication this will feel as though you have your own vagina to play with.

Double Fists: Make a fist with both of your hands and place them on top of each other in the air just above your penis. Make sure that you apply plenty of lubricant and then slide your fists back and forth over your penis. Vary the speed to give a different sensation or you could try tightening your grip to intensify the feeling.

Twisting: This is a mixture of the Forehand grip and the Backhand. Start at the base of your penis with a forehand grip and firmly glide your hand to the head of your penis. Then change to a backhand grip, so that when you slide your hand back down the shaft, your thumb will reach the base of your penis first. Stay with backhand and slide back up, then swap to forehand and slide back down. And repeat...

it is simply a matter of finding it and with a little help and practice, a G-Spot orgasm is obtainable.

Named after the German obstetrician, Dr. Graftenbuerg, the 'G' spot is a small bean shaped area that lies just behind the upper front wall of a woman's vagina. This tiny one and a half to two inches of area that falls right inside the vaginal opening is a hotbed of stimulative impulses, inducing orgasms galore. It can sometimes even lead to multiple orgasms during one sexual encounter!

Every woman and her partner should know how to locate the illustrious G-Spot. It is very difficult to locate your G-Spot while lying down so start by sitting. It is usually felt, about half-way between the back of your pubic bone and your cervix and feels like a small lump that swells as it is stimulated.

When it is first touched you may feel like you have a need to urinate, even if your bladder has just been emptied.

Using your fingers, explore the anterior (inside front) wall of your vagina using a firm upward pressure. You can also use firm pressure from outside at the same time with the other hand on the abdomen just above your pubic bone.

As you find and stimulate your G-Spot and it begins to swell, you will feel it as a small lump, which will give you a distinct feeling. Some women have larger spots, but the sensation is the same regardless of its size. As you press firmly on your G-Spot you will feel a slight urge to urinate, however, within two to ten seconds of massage, the initial reaction is replaced in some women by a strong and distinctive feeling of sexual pleasure.

Apply firmer pressure on the G-Spot than you would on your clitoris. As you continues stimulation inside your vagina, which should feel slightly to moderately pleasurable, you may feel twinges or contractions in your uterus. When the urge to wee disappears, you should relax in a more comfortable position on your bed. You should continue stimulating your G-Spot, try kneeling or sitting on your feet with knees apart.

Your partner can play an important role in supporting and initiating your G-Spot orgasm by inserting his index and middle finger into your vagina and stroking the anterior (inside front) wall with a "come here" motion. Well-trimmed fingernails can be a good idea; reasonably strong pressure is needed. A stimulated G-Spot will feel spongy and different from the rest of the vagina. Stroking the G-Spot firmly in this way can bring on a relatively quick orgasm or several of them. The area becomes hard and firm, like an erect penis as it swells, sometimes to the size of a walnut. It can be felt between both sets of fingers, the man's stimulating through the anterior vaginal wall and you pressing down on your abdomen above the pubic hair line.

Now that you have located your G-Spot it is now time to try and have a G-Spot orgasm. You can do this with penetration of a partner's fingers or penis, or G spot vibrator.

G Spot Orgasm with a Partner

Only certain positions will allow his penis to continuously stimulate your G-Spot:

Best sex position - The Female Superior Position

In the Female Superior Position you lie on top of him with your legs on the outside of his legs. Your body is parallel with his so you are able to move around and manipulate his penis getting into areas he would never be able to do if he were on top. While you are on top, you can kneel, squat, or sit on top of his erect penis. When you sits on his erect penis in this position, his penis penetrates very deeply and can almost always make the woman achieve an orgasm. In this variation she can sit on the man using her hands to push herself up and down as she faces his feet. She also has the option to ease back close to his chest with her legs together.

Kneeling Position

This calls for him to be sitting or kneeling with his penis inside her. The woman can have her knees pulled up to her chest with her feet flat on his chest while she rolls her hips around while stimulating her G- Spot.

Rear Entry Sex Position

The Rear Entry position also called "doggie style" is a favorite among sex enthusiasts. It does have one advantage and one disadvantage - the advantage is because of the angle and the depth of penetration, it is an excellent way to reach the G-Spot. The disadvantage is that it's sometimes difficult to keep his penis inside her and there is no direct clitoral stimulation. Rear Entry Sex Position involves the man kneeling behind her as she is on all fours using kneepads or pillows placed under the knees. The most common body position is the man and woman having similar body positions, in other words, bodies as close together as possible.

Piercing Tiger Position

This exciting variation can be performed with her on her knees and forearms so that her buttocks are raised. He then kneels behind her grasping her waist and hips controlling all the action. This is a true animalistic position.

Laid Out Rear Entry Position

While performing the rear entry, she can be entered while both are standing up or lying down flat. You can even perform this position kneeling, sitting or even lying side by-side.

With a G Spot Vibrator

Using a G Spot Vibrator, especially curved ones designed for G-Spot orgasms, makes locating the G Spot and applying firm pressure a lot easier. The vibrations also help to stimulate and increase the sensations. We particularly recommend the use of special G Spot gels such as Ooooh That's It! G Spot Gel and Intimate Organics G Spot Gel which can be applied on the tip of the vibrator as well as with the finger directly on your G-Spot. These gels work to temporarily enlarge, excite and engorge your g spot, making it super-sensitive to touch and stimulation. Use yours or his firngers first, that way you can locate the spot perfectly and gradually build up stimulation before moving onto your G spot vibrator.

Using a G Spot Vibrator, especially curved ones designed for G-Spot orgasms, makes locating the G Spot and applying firm pressure a lot easier. The vibrations also help to stimulate and increase the sensations. We particularly recommend the use of special G Spot gels such as Ooooh That's It! G Spot Gel and Intimate Organics G Spot Gel which can be applied on the tip of the vibrator as well as with the finger directly on your G-Spot. These gels work to temporarily enlarge, excite and engorge your g spot, making it super-sensitive to touch and stimulation. Use yours or his firngers first, that way you can locate the spot perfectly and gradually build up stimulation before moving onto your G spot vibrator.

From the time of Hippocrates, early Western Doctors and physicians were treating women for "Hysteria", the term hysteria comes from the Greek word meaning "that which proceeds from the uterus".

The symptoms of Hysteria encompassed many different symptoms, including fainting, nervousness, insomnia, sensations of heaviness in the abdomen, muscles spasms, shortness of breath, loss of appetite for food or sex with the approved male partner and sometimes cause trouble for other members of the patients family. Physicians believed this was due to a lack of sexual intercourse, and in the first instance urged unattached women to marry, and married women to have more sexual relations with their partners. Physicians thought women simply needed more sex and erroneously believed that by simple penetration by the appropriate male partner the woman would be "cured", women were also not encouraged to masturbate. Physicians needed to treat their white, middle and upper class patients' Hysteria so they devised a form of treatments including massage of the vulval area to produce "Hysterical Paroxysm".

Gynecological Massage goes Electric

A lucrative profession emerged - genital massage to orgasm - although physicians did not relish the treatment, many classed it as a routine chore. Some preferred to have a midwife who would massage the patient. Obviously great skill was involved, with some patients requiring manual manipulation for up to an hour. The treatment was highly respected, no one questioned the ethics, after all the outside manipulation was a legitimate treatment in professional terms and not in the least connected to a sexual act because penetration did not take place. After all physicians were doing the job that husbands and lovers wouldn't or couldn't do. The patients were neither cured nor died, and they returned again and again to get relief from the symptoms of their "Hysteria".

The treatment was difficult for some physicians, the correct area and the length of time that was required to induce the "paroxysm" (orgasm) meant that they could not treat many patients in one day and the manual strain was a consideration too. In 1869 and 1872 American physician George Taylor patented steam powered massage and vibratory apparatus, some of it designed for female disorders. George Taylor marketed his appliances to Spas and large Health practices, those with a large patient list of female "patients" with pelvic complaints to justify the expense, Taylor warned physicians that women should be supervised to prevent "over-indulgence".

By 1900 a whole range of vibratory appliances were available to physicians from low priced foot models to the top-of-the-range Cadillac of vibrators the Chattanooga, it sold to physicians for an astonishing $200. Articles praised the machines' versatility for treating nearly all diseases in both men and women as well its savings to the physicians' time and effort.

Mums "Secret Helper"

By 1905 conveniently portable models were available with assorted vibratodes (rubber massaging attachments) enabling physicians to make house calls. From this time onwards (until the 1920's) the vibrator began to be marketed as a "home appliance". Promoted to women in sewing, knitting and home style magazines as a health and relaxation aid, with ambiguous advertising slogans such as "all the pleasures of youth…will throb within you".

An especially versatile vibrator line was illustrated in the Sears Roebuck and Company Electrical Goods catalogue in 1918 with the slogan "Aids that every woman appreciates", it included attachments for beating grinding and operating a fan - Mums "Secret Helper" carried a socially acceptable front.

By the end of the 1920's the true vibrator (as opposed to the massager or electrotherapeutic device) gradually disappeared from doctor's offices and respectable journals and magazines. This may have been as a result of physicians understanding more about women's sexual response, or due to the fact that vibrators had started tp appear in Stag Films (aka porn films) - tarnishing their image for "respectable women".

Vibrators and massagers seemed to fall out of favour until their re-emergence in the 1960's, when it was no longer a medical instrument, and into the 1970's when they emerged as a "sex aid".

Sources: The Technology of Orgasm "Hysteria", the vibrator and Women's Sexual Satisfaction by Rachael P Maines, John Hopkins University Press.

Environmental group Greenpeace called on the European Union to ban the use of chemical plastic softeners in sex toys because they contained dangerous substances known as phthalates.

"Adult sex toys contain the same toxic substances that EU banned from use in children's toys," said Greenpeace.

The environmental group said it was shocked to find that seven of the eight sex toys it had tested contained between 24% and 51% of phthalates.

"It is unbelievable that such toxic substances can be used in adult toys." Said Greenpeace spokesperson Bart van Opzeeland adding "The last few years we've tested a lot of products but never before did we find such high concentrations.'

Greenpeace research has shown that phthalates can disrupt the human hormonal system, diminish fertility and adversely affect the kidneys and liver. The substance is used to soften plastics and PVC plastic.

The use of phthalates in the production of children's toys was outlawed several years ago. There are some sex toys that Passion8 have always refused to sell, even though our suppliers tell us they are "best-sellers" but we have found them to be particularly offensive. There are some toys that we know if we leave them on a sheet of paper, chemicals leach out into the paper within minutes - if those chemicals are leaching out onto paper, and then they will be leaching into our bodies when we use them! The intimate use of toxic sex toys means a fast track for phthalates getting into our systems.

Some sex toys manufacturers have been slow to respond to our concerns, there are several body friendly styles available and these are the ones that we here at Passion8 are championing. Passion8 feels that if it can expose this modern-day sex scandal then this will help our customers make an informed decision about choosing a safe-sex toy. We know that once sales of phthalate sex toys start to falter, the cash-rich manufacturers will wake up and start to make the end users (literally) safety of paramount importance and find other compounds to use in the manufacture of sex toys, just like children's toy manufacturers did several years ago. Greenpeace stressed that a ban on phthalates would not mean the disappearance of people's favourite sex toys as there are plenty of non-toxic alternatives.

The report from Greenpeace was obviously a "warning shot" to a number of sex toy manufacturers, it can only be hoped that sex toy manufacturers will not need to be legislated against and that their consciences will be pricked and they will self-regulate and stop using phthalates.

When shopping here at Passion8, look out for 'Silicone Sex Toys', and 'Body-friendly' sex toys. You can be assured we won't stock vibrators with phthalates here at Passion8!

Prior to the 1980's most toys were ram-rod straight. Now however manufacturers have cottoned on to the G-Spot and created something especially for the purpose. If only there were more women in the manufacturing and design side of the business then, we think, the adult toy business would really flourish - instead of being told what we want and need from someone who is not necessarily an end user!

G Spot Vibrators - How they work

The curves in the G-Spot types of vibrators match the natural shape of the vagina and will help you to easily locate your G-Spot. As always we recommend you use lashings of water-based lubricant. The feed-back from our testers varied with regard to G-Spot stimulation. Some found that the G-Spot vibrator when in motion was a distraction from G-Spot stimulation, whilst others found that they are a perfect way to amplify arousal.

Cathy Winks in her book, The Good Vibrations Guide to the G Spot says "The G-Spot is responsive to pressure not touch so there's no guarantee that you'll find internal vibration particularly stimulating. On the other hand, vibrators certainly do the trick when it comes to external G-Spot stimulation. For instance if you press a vibrator against the clitoris and mouth of the urethra, the sensations can be transmitted to the urethral sponge inside causing your G-Spot to swell"

Testers Verdicts for G Spot Vibrators

"I use one G-Spot vibrator inside pressing out and another smooth vibrator against my clitoris, the intensity is more than I can bear and it brings me off in less than a minute! I sometimes orgasm with so much intensity that I actually ejaculate! For me, that is a sign of the ultimate orgasm!"

“I had read a lot about g-spot stimulation and decided that I was actively going to try to find if it was fact or fiction! I bought a Dual G Spot Arouser and settled down to stimulate the area; I soon knew I had hit the exact spot, that actually can't be reached by my favourite "orgasm" position with my partner. I had a thundering orgasm that was so intense I actually ejaculated! Two myths for me were exploded in one session, I have since included my partner in this fun and it has totally changed the way we make love. Now my orgasms are more intense and we both reap the rewards. I would say to any woman who has not located and "worked" her g-spot, then she doesn't know what extra fun she is missing! Thank you Passion8!

"I was curious to use a G-Spot vibrator. I once dated a man who had a penis shaped like a banana! It had a real bend in it, but I thought nothing of it. I was riding him merrily one Sunday morning, and had a fabulous orgasm, I also noticed a pool of clear liquid - I knew I hadn't wet myself but just didn't know quite what had happened. Years later I discovered that I had probably ejaculated, and that it had been due to his banana shaped penis stimulating my G-Spot. Rather than find another man with a banana shaped penis (hubby may object!) I was more than happy to try a g-spot vibrator and can assure you that a G-Spot orgasm really is different to my usual clitoral/vaginal orgasms. They seem much more intense, stronger contractions and I get much wetter! I'm sold on the g-spot vibrator - it finally dawned on me why so many women like it doggie style - maximum pleasuring to the G-Spot"

"Its the first time I've ever gushed [female ejaculation] with my boyfriend, and it was amazing. He had read an article about 'gushing' and was determined that we should try it, and the intense stimulation together with the angle of the curve, really did make me gush!"

Phthalates are a chemical compound used to soften hard plastics into soft rubber and jelly. Many sex toys are made using phthalates, namely the ones referred to as jelly rubber, they appear in other permutations such as jel-lee, latex jelly, or derivatives like glow-in-the-dark and "realistic" feel materials such as softskin, or Cyberskin. Phthalates are derived from Phthalic acid, and is often called a plasticizer for its plastic softening properties. Already banned in children's toys (e.g. teething rings etc) phthalates are still used widely by some of the world's largest sex toy producers. Sadly it would seem that although many of these leading manufacturers are well aware of the drawbacks and potential hazards surrounding phthalates they continue to use them in their sex toys. The reason is simple - phthalates are cheap.

Are phthalates toxic?

Greenpeace research has shown that phthalates can disrupt the human hormonal system, diminish fertility and adversely affect the kidneys and liver. The substance is used to soften plastics and PVC plastic. Whilst there are no warnings against using sex toys with phthalates, a recent Danish Survey recommended that pregnant women and nursing mothers should avoid phthalates.

Phthalates have a very chemical smell; they leach oils and can leave grease spots on fabrics and wood. The use of phthalates in sex toy production makes the surface of a sex toy porous so not only do the toxic chemicals leach out of a sex toy they also absorb bacteria even after washing.

If you suspect your favourite sex toy contains phthalates and you can' bear to be parted from it, you could use a condom on it to protect yourself from possible toxic exposure - or treat yourself to a new vibrator in body friendly material.

Is there an alternative to Phthalates?

Most certainly. Remember Phthalates are only used in soft rubber, or latex sex toys, so if you opt for Glass sex toys, Metal sex toys and Hard Plastic sex toys you won't be exposed to phthalates and our increased sales on these products (especially glass) show us that some buyers are already responding to the safety issue.

There are small niche producers that have been creating safe sex toys with love and care for many years and it is with pleasure that we can highlight these manufacturers to customers. Customers must realize that if they buy a sex toy for 99p they are not buying quality and the cost could be more far- reaching than mere pence. Quality phthalate-free ranges are not cheap, because they are not mass produced, they do however offer some of the best vibrating mechanisms and contemporary styles available today, all in body friendly materials. Look for sex toys from the following ranges: Cherish Sex Toys, and the UK favourites Emotional Bliss as recommended by RELATE - and the Rock-Chick and other Silicone and body friendly sex toys at Passion8.

Shop wisely, recent years have seen a proliferation of sex-toy supermarkets, especially online where sites champion the fact they have over 4,500 products, or that they are "The Largest" on the web. As always it is caveat emptor (buyer beware) these sites do not have experienced buyers - they merely feature every product that a manufacturer throws at them, the cheaper the better in many cases. We regularly see styles of sex toys online that we have shunned for years, styles with a high phthalate content (they stink); styles with attachments that drop off (Non-Doctor and the New Non-Doctor); and styles that are recommended for certain uses (anal toys without a safety hilt) that clearly shouldn't be.

Get as much information you can and buy from a reputable supplier, as always Passion8 is here to help with any question you may have.

Its time to start thinking "Nice Girls Do!". It's not just about sex organs though - for women, hormones and the brain have a big part to play, while fantasy, relaxation and plenty of time all help put the pleasure zone within reach.

Good Housekeeping Award Best All Rounder:

Ultra 7 Future Tech Rabbit Vibrator

The Girls of Sex And the City loved this and so did our testers - infact they all voted it their top sex aid. The Ultra Tech Rabbit ears' seven speed settings hit the spot with our sex aid aficionados and our sex aid virgins. With speed settings on the rotating shaft too, you can experiment until the sun comes up. Click to see why GH voted this best all rounder.

Good Housekeeping Award Best for Vaginal Stimulation:

Ultra 7 Seven Wonders Vibrator
Our testers loved the variety of different vibrating settings on the Ultra 7 Vibrator - "great fun to experiment with". they were also impressed with how quiet it was, even on higher settings.

Good Housekeeping Award Best for Clitoral Stimulation:

Chandra Finger Tip Vibrator
Designed with the help of RELATE therapist Chandra is discreet and neutrally coloured "Surprisingly tasteful for a sex-aid" said one of our testers. It's comprehensive instruction booklet was a bonus for more inexperienced users, with only one speed setting some of our users suggested it could do with being slightly more powerful, but for those with time to spare and beginners, this is a good choice.

Maybe you've never had one before and you're curious. Maybe you've tried wearing a corset before but it just didn't look or feel right. Well you're in luck because here's your handy Passion8 guide to buying and wearing a corset!

Choosing a Corset

First things first, do you know what you're looking for? Is there a certain look or style you're after? Waist training or fashion? Basque or overbust? There's a lot to think about but once you've made your decision, the rest should be easy! Today we will go over the fashion corsets and the kind to wear in the bedroom.

Getting the Right Fit

For the ideal fit, be sure that the corset is two to four inches smaller than your waist size. Be honest with your measurements - this is your comfort we're talking about here! Remember, they are meant to have a gap in the back. It is important that you have enough room to breathe in there. A corset should be snug enough to slightly squeeze you but still allow you to breathe. There's nothing sexy about cut-off circulation and fainting!

If you have a large bust and have a hard enough time finding tops let alone lingerie, choose an underbust basque instead. You can bare your breasts or pair it up with a matching bra. Even better, mix it up and wear a funky print bra.

How To Lace a Corset

So you've picked out the perfect corset and you can't wait to try it on. The first thing you should notice is that your corset will come pre-laced, usually with some ribbon. Sure it's pretty but it's not what you want. Ideally, a bootlace at least 5 metres long should be used. Bootlaces are long and strong and can easily withstand a night of dancing or a vigorous lovemaking session.

One of the most important aspects of your new corset is how it's laced. Laced wrong and it's not going to feel right once it's tightened. The best way to do this is called ' rabbit ears lacing '. Rabbit ears corset lacing makes it as tight as comfortably possible in the waist while leaving your hips and bust in an alluring shape. This way of lacing also gives independent control over how tight your ribcage and hips are cinched. The rabbit ears should be placed at the narrowest point of your corset as this is what you use to tighten and fasten. They will also enable you to put on your new corset by yourself so you don't ruin the surprise!

Your corset will either have an opening or it will be one solid piece. Either way, you should loosen the laces quite a bit before you either wrap it around you or you shimmy into it. Once it's on (and fastened if it's a two piece), stick your thumbs into each of the rabbit ears and give it a slow tug. Don't go too fast or you risk getting a friction burn from the laces! Once you have them taut, you can then start working your way from the top to the middle and tighten the crosses. You will then need to take up the slack again through the rabbit ears. You should still be able to take a deep breath. Do this again from the bottom up and finish up by tying a bow in the rabbit ears. There you go, sexy! You're all ready to go!

It's official. Not only can a good kiss make you weak at the knees, but it's also positively good for your health - and your relationships. Whether it's under the duvet, or somewhere more public, the evidence is clear - we should all be puckering up more!

Our sensual lips

The lips are one of the most sensitive areas of the body, containing a rich supply of nerve endings. And for most women, they appear be an important key to sexual arousal. In a recent survey, women named the lips as the most important contact point for a man to touch during the early stages of lovemaking. Not the breasts or the genitals, but the lips. Sharing them with a lover can be one of the most deeply meaningful and intimate acts you can do with each other, and will trigger the release of oxytocin, a bonding hormone which helps you to feel loved and cared for.

Kissing as a relationship barometer

Research shows that the couple which kisses together, stays together," says Dr. Gary Wood, a social psychologist at the University of Birmingham. "Kissing is a very good indicator of relationship status, because it is inviting another into your intimate zone. And typically this zone is reserved for someone you feel very special about, whom you value. Sex therapists often suggest more kissing which specifically doesn't lead to sex, to help re-establish intimacy and feeling of closeness in a relationship. This is because kissing has more to do with love and affection than sex typically does," says Dr. Wood.

According to Desmond Morris, the well-known expert on mammalian behaviour, this deep level of intimacy may explain why traditionally prostitutes say 'no kissing' despite the fact that they permit all kinds of genital contact. "When asked for a reason for their kissing taboo, they are reported as replying that it is not because mouth-to-mouth kissing is unhygienic, but because it is 'too personal' - a comment which says a great deal about the significance of the female lips. It may also explain why, in some countries such as Japan, there is a taboo on kissing in public," he says in his recent book The Naked Woman (Vintage, £8.99)

To boost immunity

As children, many of us believed that a kiss had special healing powers, especially when you scraped your knee and mummy 'kissed it better'. It turns out there's more truth to this than you might think. Research shows that when you feel loved and nurtured, your immune system becomes stronger and better able to fight off disease. Studies suggest that people who kiss their partner every morning take fewer sick days off work, have lower blood pressure and live about five years longer.

At the height of the cold and flu season, good sense might suggest that you keep your lips to yourself. But think again. According to Professor Ron Eccles, director of the Common Cold Centre at Cardiff University, it is very hard to catch a cold simply by exchanging saliva with another person. Researchers there have studied hundreds of students snogging. And kissing, they concluded, resulted in no transmission of the cold virus. "Kissing is very low risk because we exchange saliva and not nasal secretions - and it is through nasal secretions that the cold virus is spread. This is why you are more likely to catch a cold by shaking hands with someone, than by kissing them," he says. Over the long-term kissing can also help to make your immune system more robust, according to Professor Eccles, "The more you increase your exposure to the current viruses in circulation, the better your immune system will cope at fighting them off," he says. <br>

A passionate kiss which shares saliva also allows your to exchange germs with each other. And this exposure - unless either of you is harbouring an infection - is thought to boost your internal defences and make your immune system more robust, as the extra dose of friendly 'foreign' bacteria helps to prevent more harmful bacteria taking hold. In fact, because of all the friendly bacteria in your mouth - your more likely to catch a cold shaking hands with someone, than kissing them!

As a Stress Buster

Meditation, deep breathing and yoga may be brilliant at melting away stress, but they're not half as much fun as getting stuck in for a good kiss. Kissing is an excellent way to help you to simply 'let go'. This can significantly release tension and burn off harmful stress chemicals, not unlike the effect of meditation, says Dr. Gary Wood. "When you press your mouth against your lover's mouth, your breathing becomes deeper and slower, and you become focused on the present moment. This can stop the buzz in your mind and reduce anxiety and worrying. It also triggers the release of endorphins in the brain, which add to the calming effect," he says.

As a Mood Elevator

Research shows that those who wake with a kiss, will start the day with a more positive attitude. Carry that kiss into a full snog, and you'll stimulate the limbic system, that part of the brain known as the pleasure centre. Studies reveal that passionate kissing triggers the release of a neurotransmitter called phenylethylamine or PEA. This brain chemical is known to 'rev up' the brain and can bring on feelings of exhilaration, elation and euphoria. PEA is said to be responsible for the butterflies you feel in the first flush of love, and in smaller doses, as when you kiss someone you feel attraction and affection towards, they will lift your mood and make you feel more full of life.

To keep you looking younger and slimmer

An energetic kissing session can exercise and help to tone all the underlying muscles of the face, which helps you to look younger and certainly happier! If kissing leads to regular sex with your partner, this will also help to keep you younger for longer. In his research on ageing, Dr. David Weeks, consultant clinical neuropsychologist at the Royal Edinburgh Hospital, found that one of the key ingredients for looking younger than your years is maintaining an active sex life. Kissing could also contribute to weight loss, as a full-on tongue tangling session has been found to burn between 6 and 12 calories a minute, depending on the level of enthusiasm!

Kissing as communication

Many of us find it hard to talk about sex with our partners. Non-verbal communication is often easier in this department, and kissing can be a powerful tool, suggests body language expert Judi James, author of Sex Signals. "There are so many senses in the mouth and tongue area, that you can almost read someone's mind when you are kissing them. Through a kiss, it is possible to ask your lover many of the sexual questions that you may not feel comfortable verbalising. It's all done through very subtle pressure and touch, and is one of the most effective and enjoyable ways of keeping in touch with your partner, especially outside the bedroom!"

The First kiss

Most of us remember our very first kiss, and it can be fun to dust off those memories and share them with a friend or lover. However, whatever your age or stage of life, if you find yourself unattached and in the market for Mr. Right, the same age-old questions arise. Should I or shouldn't I? The idea of a first kiss can make a grown up feel like an adolescent all over again, filled with doubt, uncertainty and a sudden dent in confidence. Ariana Gee, a former Relate couples counsellor and author of Be Your Own Love Coach (New Holland, £7.99) suggests delaying that first sensual kiss for at least three dates, to give you both the chance to get to know each other before hormones start to cloud your judgement. "If we are attracted to someone physically, and start to kiss them, it is almost akin to going to bed with them, because the hormones start raging once you've made lip and tongue contact. These adrenaline type chemicals can keep you from sleeping, cut your concentration and give you an energy surge, and they can also mask reality. You may be swooning from those kisses, but before making any relationship decisions it's best to do a reality check between your head and your heart. Ask yourself, does this person meet me in values and want the same things out of life that I do?"

Starting a campaign for more kisses

There's often lots and lots of kissing at the beginning of a relationship, but as you get more comfortable with each other over time, those kisses can get forgotten, says to NLP master practitioner and 'bliss expert' Amanda Lowe, author of Thinking Sexy. "We often stop punctuating our exchanges with kisses, all those lovely 'full-stops' which can be so intimate and uplifting. We substitute a shorthand instead, and so long-term relationship can lose the magic along the way, because of the loss of punctuation!" Amanda is keen to start a campaign for bringing back the kisses so many of us have lost from our lives. "If you feel your relationship is getting a bit stale, make an effort to go back to romance - to handholding and kissing. And don't forget that unexpected kisses can be the sweetest - like in the middle of the supermarket queue. When you are doing something boring or mundane, it's the perfect way to brighten it!" she suggests.

If you're not at liberty or at ease with a full-blown snog in the middle of Tesco's, Amanda suggests developing a 'code of kisses' to signal your intentions. "To anyone else this might look innocent, but even if you're surrounded by kids, a quick nibble on the ear or the back of the neck, or a kiss on his finger, could be your own secret love code, something that tells him he's in with a chance tonight when you get him alone!"

Lick your lips & Watch the Slap!

Painting your lips a glossy red is one of the oldest tricks in the book to attract a man's attention to your lips. What's happening at a sub-conscious level, apparently, is that bright lips mimic the look and state of a woman's aroused labia, which become reddened and engorged when excited. However, says Judi James, while that works as an initial attractor, along with licking your lips, if you want to invite a really good kiss, it's usually a good idea to blot off the gloss and gunk first, as many men find the taste and the feel of lipstick off-putting, even revolting!

Kissing at the heart of our pleasure centre

According to the classic Kinsey study of female sexuality, Sexual Behaviour in the Human Female, published in 1953, the lips are so highly sensitive and arousing that some women find they can climax during prolonged bouts of mouth-to-mouth deep kissing, even in the absence of genital contact. Extend these kisses to beyond your lovers lips and onto other sensitive or erotic parts of his body, and the act can be as much a turn-on for the kisser, as the receiver of those kisses, says Desmond Morris. "The female may appear to be involved purely in servicing the male and arousing him, but so refined are the nerve-endings in the mucous membranes of the everted female lips, that every touch they make on a loved one's body also sends back powerful stimuli to their owner. In this respect, as in so many others, the human female is the most highly developed of all the primates."

Types of Kisses

Here's body language expert Judi James's take on the benefits of the different types of kisses:

• The Air kiss: Social kissing like the air kiss or cheek kiss creates a fast-track feeling of empathy and family, even with relative strangers. It is a shared ritual that is bonding.
• The forehead kiss: This is very tender and almost parent-child, even when performed between lovers. It is warm and nurturing and in a close relationship says "I am here to look after you."
• The Eskimo kiss: Rubbing noses signals affection rather than lust, even between sexual partners. It is a favourite of the Beckhams, possibly because it doesn't disrupt Victoria's make-up when in public!
• The puckered kiss: This is where just the tips of the lips touch and signals a shared sense of humour and fun between a couple.
• The mouth kiss: Touching lips can relay thousands of very subtle signals via intensity, pressure, gentleness, and the sexual signals it sends.
• The French kiss: Probably the most sexual act you can do in public! It mimics aspects of the act of sex itself and is one of the most intimate turn-ons during foreplay.

Celebrate Chinese New Year with a Bang!

The year 2011 is the Year of the Rabbit in the Chinese Zodiac and what better way to celebrate? Whether you're a fan of rabbit vibrators or you're just plain curious, you're here because you're interested in the Rabbit Vibrator. Originally, animals were added on to vibrators to add to the 'novelty' of 'novelty personal massagers' in order to fly just under the naughtiness radar but stories spread about how the added feature was actually an added bonus!

While still relatively new, Rabbit Vibrators have only been around since the early 90's and now they're huge everywhere. The buzz was spreading initially by word of mouth. They seemed to slowly grow in popularity just on their own but when one was featured on Sex in the City (Series 1, Episode 9 The Turtle and the Hare), all of a sudden they were flying off the shelves! Even today, rabbit vibrators remain one of the most popular sex toys around

What can a rabbit vibrator do for me?

Well first off, for those into penetration during masturbation it's a vibrator, usually phallic shaped. The plain models will only provide multi-speed vibration but there are all sorts out there. There are some where the shaft rotates, throbs or thrusts and most will have rotating pearls in the shaft which stimulate the most sensitive part of your vaginal walls.

Then there's the all important Rabbit part! These little guys know where to go and what to do once they're there. Their little rabbit ears kiss and caress your clitoris just right, and as if that weren't enough they can vibrate either with or independently of your vibrator. It usually dosen't take long before you're over the edge.

For beginners, we reccomend the Erotic Jessica Rabbit Vibrator. It features an easy to use push button controller, multi-speed vibrations and internal rotating beads for extra stimulation. For the advanced user there's the Double Pleasure Rabbit Vibrator. This one dosen't play around!!! It features two rabbits for clitoral and anal stimulation, an oscilating penis head and rotating beads in the shaft, all controlled by an easy slide controller.

If you've got one home and found you weren't keen on the clitoral stimulation, not to worry! You can always turn it around and use the rabbit to stimulate your back door, he won't mind!

Here at Passion8 we have many rabbits to choose from. Have a look over our selection of rabbit vibrators, and don't forget! During Chinese New Year this year, we're offering 10% off on all rabbits vibrators! We even have one for under a tenner! The Cordless Finger Rabbit Vibrator is a bullet vibrator with a rabbit sleeve. Underneath is a very stretchy loop which can easily slip over a finger or over your favourite vibrator for added fun!