When most of us think of sex toys, we think of masturbation. While toys are great for spicing up solo play, they can also be used with a partner. In fact, they are sometimes called "marital aids" for a reason. Some of you might be shy about bringing something you feel is private out in front of your partner. Fear not, most people own at least one sex toy, so the secret is out! Here are a few reasons to break out the toy box during partner sex, and reasons to get your partner to show you their favorite toys as well. Ready for some show and tell?

Toys can open up a line of communication between you and your partner. Play a little show and tell. Show your partner how you use the toy on yourself and use it on them in a similar way. Talk to each other about why it feels good. Take the opportunity to be vocal about how it feels when each particular toy is used in different ways. Let your partner start with how you use it, then experiment. Communication is always a good thing in any relationship, even if it is a purely sexual one. The simple act of sharing your toys and talking about them can be a great way to be more comfortable both with each other and with yourself.

First and foremost, toys let us know what feels good. No matter what kind of toys you are into, you like them because they feel good. Knowing what flips your switch is vital information for a sex partner. Using toys with a partner, or using toys in front of a partner, can give a lot of insight about what feels good to you and how you want to be touched. Do you like penetrative toys? Vibration? Warming lubrication? All this is for the bank of knowledge about how to please you.

Another good reason to bring in the toys is the heightened sensation. Toys do things that our partner can't do on their own. For example clitoral stimulation during penetration usually leads to easier orgasm than penetration alone. Let your imagination run wild.

The anticipation or fantasy aspect can also be a big component when bringing in toys. For example, you can try out double penetration with toys and never have to bring in a third person. Been wanting to try anal but are afraid your partner is too large? Try pegging toys. Maybe you always wanted to try being tied up or blindfolded. Bringing these things into the bedroom can help realize those fantasies and make you more willing to talk to your partner about more fantasies. Talk to your partner and see how far you can take your fantasies by introducing different types of toys and accessories.

Remember, do not share anal toys or cross use anal toys into the vagina. The bacteria is very different and you want to keep you and your partner safe.

Whatever toys you and your partner are into, they can and should be incorporated into your partnered sex life. So break out your favorites, or shop Badd Kitty for some new favorites.

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