The Vixen Advisor
Liz Delisi
Each month the Vixen will personally answer one of the sizzling questions sent in by SUITE subscribers concerning life, love, sex, relationships, and having fun. To see what all the talk is about subscribe and find out for yourself.
The question of the month:

Q: My girlfriends and I went into an adult store and saw some ben-wa balls. We giggled because we didn't know what they were or how to use them and none of us are brave enough to ask somebody face to face. Can you answer this for us? And where did they get their start?
~J.M., Blister, OK

Vixen's Answer

A: Ben-wa balls are marble-sized balls made out of metal–chrome, steel, gold or gold-plated–that a woman inserts in her vagina to cause or facilitate an orgasm. They're usually hollow, with weights inside to cause the balls to shift as you move and produce subtle stimulation. Some women use just one, but most use at least two, because when the balls knock together, it adds to the sensation. You can use them during masturbation, or you can be brash and wear them all day. And yes, you can use them during traditional intercourse with your honey as well–it can increase the stimulation for both of you. Be aware, though, that ben-wa balls produce a subtle sensation, so don't expect fireworks and brass bands. One additional thing they're good for: like Kegel exercises, they tone and strengthen your pelvic floor muscles.

They're easy to insert (use a little lubricant if necessary), but some women worry about how to retrieve them. You can expel them by squatting and pushing–like childbirth but not painful! Or, you can try a set of ben-wa balls that comes attached to each other by a cord, and features a pull-string.

Warning: don't wear them out in public until you're comfortable with them. Some women have found an ill-timed laugh or sneeze causes them to pop loose! Ben-wa balls are reputed to have come from ancient China, as the name hints. They're inexpensive, so why not give them a try?