Q: I have read all over the web that it is safe to use an external vibrator during pregnancy. However, no one seems to address the fact that some vibrators are stronger than others. I am wondering if the Hitachi magic wand vibrator, which is really supposed to be a back massager and creates a vibration that is much stronger than a regular external vibrator, is safe to use during pregnancy. I am concerned that the vibration could rattle the baby and maybe cause brain damage or something like shaken baby syndrome. I am too embarrassed to ask my Dr. – I am hoping that you might know the answer.
A: A lot of women have had this concern so you’re right there’s a lot of info on the internet about this. We looked all over the place and couldn’t come up with research about this. The MD’s that answered this on the sites below said that unless you were at risk for pre-term labor, it was safe. Orgasms are not safe for those at risk of premature labor so it isn’t the vibrator itself. Risk for premature labor includes: history of premature labor, early cervical changes, increasingly frequent uterine contractions, history of infections during the pregnancy.
www.babycenter.com/406_is-it-safe-to-use-a-vibrator-during-pregnancy_1245277.bc
www.netdoctor.co.uk/ate/pregnancyandchildbirth/204904.html
The midwife on iVillage stated it was safe except for those with premature labor risks.
A few things to think about. Usually the baby’s head is not in the pelvic area until late in pregnancy, week 36. This means that the baby’s head is far away from the external genitalia and the vibration should be minimal to non existent at that distance. Additionally, shaken baby syndrome is caused not by vibrations but by rotational cranial acceleration; damage to the cervical spine or violent motions that are whiplash-like. If your concern is your Hitachi wand, you could use a less intense vibrator or using it with a towel or even underwear to decrease the sensation.
Another thought is that you could also contact Good Vibrations and ask them. Given that they’ve been selling vibrators for many years, they may some information.
From their website: If you have questions about sexuality and are looking for information and resources, we’re here to help. Send a message to our staff experts, Dr. Carol Queen and Dr. Charlie Glickman, and they’ll get back to you! Please don’t hesitate to get in touch with our docs at education@goodvibes.com! For product-related questions, please email or call our customer service staff at customerservice@goodvibes.com.
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