Vielle Stimulator

Vielle Stimulator, a disposable plastic clitoral stimulator that fits over a finger, sealed in box, CST Medical Limited, Petersfield, UK

In 2003, Liz Paul was nominated for British Female Inventor of the Year for her clitoral stimulator. Marketed as a sexual medical aid rather than a sex toy, this product was designed to help people orgasm. It was disposable, made of plastic, and designed to fit on the finger, with eight nodules for stimulation. A scientific study was even carried out with 16 volunteers to study its effectiveness. It was stocked in high street retailers in the UK, including Boots and Tesco, partly because it was marketed as a medical device rather than a sex toy. This also made it more accessible, as it was not necessary to go to a specialist shop to purchase it, which may have been intimidating for some consumers. The stimulator was particularly targeted towards people who had experienced menopause. Hormonal changes during the menopause can lead to a reduced sex drive, and vaginal dryness associated with falling oestrogen levels can make sex more uncomfortable. This stimulator and the lubricant sold alongside it were designed to address these symptoms.