SEXed UK with Bryony

Bryony Lees, In-House Sex and Relationships Editor

We are so excited to introduce Bryony to the Sextoys.co.uk fam! Bryony has worked within Sexual Wellness and Pleasure specifically for almost 5 years. With an Accreditation from ACET in teaching Sex and Relationships, she is known in the UK for her ability to blend strategic insight with hands-on execution.

SEXed UK with Bryony

Bryony has worked on sexual wellness campaigns with Sextoys.co.uk for many years, such as “The Missing O” and “Long Live the “F*cking”. Campaigns that bridge traditional media, digital platforms and cultural conversations, with a focus on making real change. Her work emphasises empowering voices and creating inclusive spaces within communities that are often underrepresented or misunderstood.

Bryony’s top picks

The One Rose is a best seller for a reason…

Not only does it work REALLY well, but it is also discreet enough to have on display, perfectly palm-sized, and the charge lasts for a really long time. My top tip for beginners would be to move the toy around, try different speed settings and intensities. The One Rose isn’t ‘one size fits all’ by any means, and you may have to try different positions until you find what you love. Read More

This toy is everything you’ll ever need

Pallina really is a true pal. The loop handle is perfect for gripping when slippery, lubed-up hands are involved. It’s a great entry-level toy for those new to dual stimulation. The longer shaft hits the G-Spot, whilst the shorter arm offers incredible clitoral stimulation. Win win! Read More

SEXed UK with Bryony

In a pickle?

Experimenting with glass has never been more fun. This pickle dildo is perfect- maybe not for absolute beginners (stick to silicone, first-timers!), but this hand-blown toy features lumps and textures that feel great! Read More

Something to drool over

Flintts Mints! The pocket-sized pal, great for dry mouth. There’s nothing worse than engaging in oral sex with a pesky dry mouth. Popping a cherry-flavoured mint before you go to town eradicates that awkwardness and leaves you drooling for many reasons… Read More

SEXed UK with Bryony

With roots in Birmingham, growing up around the home of rock legends like Black Sabbath, Judas Priest and Led Zeppelin, Bryony knows a thing or two about rebellion, UK culture and grit. She advocates for inclusivity, accurate teachings, and helping purpose-driven businesses such as Sextoys.co.uk amplify their message.

SEXed UK with Bryony

“I’ve spent the past five years working closely with Sextoys.co.uk on fun but meaningful campaigns. I’ve run through Piccadilly Circus in a princess dress holding a dildo, I’ve held signs outside of Buckingham Palace, telling the royal family to have more sex, and I’ve worked on meaningful charity partnerships to raise awareness. To be able to work even more closely with the brand and help educate their customers is so exciting!”

Bry’s Big DICKtionary! Terms as we know it, according to Bryony

Sex Toy

A sex toy is a sex toy! There’s not much more to say about it. And remember, anything can be a sex toy as long as it’s body safe and has a flared base… But seriously, a sex toy is essentially an instrument to help you explore and feel pleasure. Luckily, you’re in the right place, as Sextoys.co.uk has all the toys one could ever need.

Sexual Wellness

Sexual wellness encompasses everything relating to sex, health, pleasure, wellness, and more. Lighting a candle and wearing silky PJ’s can be sexual wellness. Heading to sex parties and exploring power dynamics can also fall under that umbrella. To me, sexual wellness is exploring, looking after yourself, and having fun.

BDSM

BDSM is an umbrella term under which a lot of categories fall. To put it simply, BDSM involves bondage, dominance, submission, and control. Those who practice BDSM tend to explore power dynamics, the art of giving complete control to someone else, and restraint. It is a beautiful way to submit to someone; however, it can be very complex. With BDSM, always make sure everyone is consenting, always have a safe word, and always communicate.

Pegging

Pegging involves a cis woman strapping on a dildo and penetrating someone anally. It is another way of exploring power dynamics, and it isn’t a practice exclusively for a WLW relationship. Many straight-presenting couples, or bisexual couples, experiment with pegging. After all, the P-Spot is located in the anal canal.

You’ve got questions, she’s got answers! Question time with Bryony

What is a Rose Toy exactly?

The Rose is an air suction vibrator. Air pulses mimic the feeling of oral sex, or tongue licking, so the Rose feels great on any sensitive spots like nipples, clitoris, and the neck. The Rose is a GREAT toy for those looking to explore air suction. It is really easy to use with one button to navigate all settings, and it just has one function. If you are struggling to get going with The Rose, don’t give up! Everyone has a different anatomy, and it might take a while to find that sweet spot, but it’s there, and when you do, it feels sooooo good.

Sextoys.co.uk has a handy guide to help you find the right rose.

Do I need to use lube with sex toys?

Yes, you need lube for everything! Lube will always be your best friend. No matter how wet you may get during foreplay and teasing. Natural lubrication isn’t formulated the same way that man-made lube is. Using lube will keep friction at bay and help the toy work as it is intended to. Remember though, silicone lube and silicone toys are a no-no, as the silicone will eventually break down. Check with the manufacturer which lube is best compatible for the toy you have. And to keep your toy in tip-top shape, make sure to clean it after every use.

Do desensitising lubes work? If so, how?

Desensitising and numbing lubes work to temporarily reduce nerve sensitivity and help delay ejaculation or ease discomfort. The lubes are made with active ingredients that contain a mild topical anesthetic that will temporarily dull nerve endings on contact. By reducing overstimulation on the penis, they help men gain more control and last longer during intercourse.

Risks include the numbness transferring to a partner’s vulva, mouth or anus if used without a condom, and it can potentially cause irritation or an allergic reaction. In this case, immediately rinse with water and seek medical help if needed.

How do I know my size or what size to buy?

If you are new to any sex toy use, start small and work your way up. Like all muscles that you would work out, muscles around the vulva and anus need training. Sextoys.co.uk has lots of dilators and anal training kits to help you get used to different sensations. For beginners, I would recommend starting out with a smaller, silicone dildo or vibrator. Silicone is easy to clean, has a squishy feel so isn’t as intense, smooth to touch and body-safe. Once you have got to grips with different sensations, then you can invest in larger or more technical toys.

Where should I start with trying BDSM?

BDSM doesn’t need to begin with rope and handcuffs. It can start by testing power dynamics and taking part in roleplay. Once you feel comfortable, start looking at BDSM kits that include paddles, break away handcuffs and body-safe dripping candles. Slowly but surely play with different sensations, temperatures, restraints and more.

Its is important to note that everyone has boundaries and it is crucial not to cross them. No matter what BDSM act you are about to indulge in, a conversation on boundaries and safe words needs to happen. Some people adopt a traffic light system where green feels good, orange is new to them and maybe at their limit, so the other person knows not to take it any further.

Check out this handy soft kink guide to learn more.