The surprising story behind the vibrator and women’s health, by Abubakar Kado
Centuries ago, women experiencing symptoms like anxiety, mood swings, fatigue, and depression were often diagnosed with a condition broadly labelled “hysteria.” This diagnosis was rooted in the ancient belief that a woman’s womb could cause disturbances in her emotions and behaviours, a reflection of the limited medical understanding and deep gender biases of the time. The condition was so commonly diagnosed that it became a catch-all for almost any emotional or physical issue women faced, and treating it quickly turned into a profitable industry for physicians.
The “treatment” prescribed for hysteria was pelvic massage, a hands-on procedure intended to bring about what was then called “hysterical paroxysm,” now recognised as an orgasm. The idea was that reaching this state would offer temporary relief from the symptoms of hysteria. As strange as it may sound today, this practice was considered legitimate medical care, and doctors devoted a significant amount of time to treating their patients in this manner.
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However, as more women sought this therapy, the workload became physically demanding. Physicians found themselves exhausted and experiencing hand cramps from the repetitive nature of the treatment. Some were even unable to keep up with the high demand. This led to a turning point in medical technology and women’s health care. Doctors and inventors, seeking a more efficient way to deliver results without wearing themselves out, developed a mechanical device that could produce rhythmic vibrations. This invention was the earliest form of the vibrator—a tool that allowed physicians to offer faster and less tiring treatments.
Initially, vibrators were strictly considered medical devices. They were used in doctor’s offices and quickly gained popularity among affluent women, who began to purchase these devices for private use at home. Advertisements for vibrators appeared in medical catalogues and even mainstream publications, marketed as tools for treating “hysteria” and promoting relaxation. During this period, their use was not linked to sexuality but rather to the idea of physical and emotional well-being—a reflection of how misunderstood women’s health was at the time.
Over the decades, societal attitudes towards sexuality began to shift, and with these changes, the history of the vibrator took on new meaning. As modern medicine advanced, the diagnosis of hysteria fell out of favour, and with it, the vibrator’s role as a medical instrument gradually disappeared. However, it found a new place as a symbol of sexual liberation and self-care. The device that once represented outdated and patriarchal views on women’s health transformed into an emblem of empowerment, used openly to promote sexual health, well-being, and autonomy.
Looking back on this history, it becomes clear that the journey of the vibrator mirrors society’s evolving views on women’s health and sexuality. What began as a treatment for a misunderstood “illness” became a way for women to reclaim their own bodies and desires. It highlights both the struggles women have faced in achieving autonomy over their health and the progress made in breaking taboos about female pleasure and well-being.
The story of the vibrator also serves as a reminder of how medical practices and beliefs are shaped by culture, bias, and a lack of understanding. While it may seem unusual or even shocking today, the treatment of hysteria reflects the lengths to which society has gone to control, define, and even misinterpret women’s experiences. Yet it also shows how women have persisted in seeking better care and finding ways to own their narratives, turning an object of medical control into one of liberation and choice.
Today, the vibrator is no longer hidden in medical offices but embraced for its role in promoting sexual health, reducing stress, and contributing to overall well-being. Its surprising history sheds light on the complexities of women’s health, how far we have come, and the ongoing journey to better understand and respect the needs and autonomy of all individuals.
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