The use of sex toys in trans and nonbinary individuals’ sexuality

Abstract

The present study explores the use of sex toys among transgender and nonbinary Italian participants. Employing a mixed-methods approach, we aimed to understand the role of sex toys in trans and nonbinary individuals’ intimate experiences. We recruited 115 participants with diverse gender identities and sexual orientations. Participants completed a structured questionnaire encompassing both closed-ended and open-ended questions, investigating their usage of sex toys, preferences, and perceptions. Our findings reveal a significant prevalence of sex toy usage within the sample, indicating an interest in these aids. Notably, a wide spectrum of sex toys was employed, with external/internal vibrators and strap-ons emerging as particularly popular choices. Through qualitative analysis, participants provided nuanced insights into their preferences, emphasizing characteristics such as aesthetics, functionality, customization, and comfort. However, our study also unveiled the complex interplay between sex toys and societal norms. For instance, participants critically discussed the limited availability of sex toys tailored for diverse bodies. For transgender and nonbinary participants, sex toys assumed a unique significance beyond pleasure; they served as tools for overcoming body dysphoria, letting go of inhibitions, and affirming their gender identity.

LAY SUMMARY

Our study delves into the world of sex toys and their significance in the lives of people with diverse gender identities. We wanted to understand how sex toys can make a difference for transgender and nonbinary individuals. It turns out that sex toys are quite popular, and many different types are used. But it’s not just about pleasure; for some, these toys help them feel more comfortable with their bodies and affirm their true gender. We also discovered that societal norms can play a big role in how people choose and use sex toys. Sometimes, these norms can limit choices and make things more challenging. But our research shows that sex toys can be empowering tools that help individuals explore their identities and enjoy fulfilling intimate experiences.

Keywords:

• Sexual pleasure
• sex toys
• sexuality
• transgender
• nonbinary

Ethics approval

The study was approved by the Ethics Committee at University of Milano-Bicocca (Protocol number RM-2021-490)

Research involving human participants

All procedures were in accordance with the ethical standards of the institutional and national research committees and with the 1964 Declaration of Helsinki.

Informed consent

All participants in this work provided informed consent.

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the author(s).

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Annalisa Anzani

Annalisa Anzani is a postdoctoral researcher at the Department of Psychology of the University of Milano – Bicocca and psychotherapist working in Milan, Italy. She received her Ph.D. in 2020 with a thesis titled “Transgender Health. A Minority Stress Perspective on the Clinical Work with Transgender Clients.” Her research interests are primarily trans health and sexuality.

Elisa Ruscio

Elisa Ruscio is an activist and volunteer at the Association for Transgender Culture and Ethics (Associazione per la Cultura e l’Etica Transgenere - ACET) in Milan, passionately advocating for trans rights. Particularly interested in addressing issues related to trans women in sports and exploring the complexities of sexuality for transgender individuals.

Ilaria Peverato

Ilaria Peverato holds a degree in Psychology and specialized in Clinical Sexology at the University of Milano-Bicocca. She is an expert in the field of sex toys, where she has been working since 2016. Ilaria is passionate about sex-positive issues and is dedicated to promoting sex-positive education.

Antonio Prunas

Antonio Prunas is a licensed psychologist and psychotherapist living and working in Milan, Italy. He is an Associate Professor in Clinical Psychology at the Department of Psychology of Milano-Bicocca State University, and since 2019 he has been the scientific director of the Post-Graduate Program in Sex Therapy.