The iroha koharu, for Those with Little or No Experience with Insertion

(This blog has been translated from one of our Japanese articles and edited for a global audience.)

On September 28, 2023 in Japan, iroha launched the iroha koharu, an item that is easy to use for beginners. A slim vibrator comfortable enough for those who have never experienced sex or are not used to insertable items.

In this article, we will introduce you to the iroha koharu and its unique features which help address the concerns of those who have never experienced sex or are not accustomed to insertable items. Dr. Sakie Niwa, Director of Sakie Ladies Clinic, has supervised and provided commentary for our article, we hope this information will prove useful for you.

Contents

Medical Supervisor: Dr. Sakie Niwa
What is the iroha koharu?
Features of the iroha koharu
How to use the iroha koharu for Self-Pleasure
Q&A with Dr. Sakie Niwa
A Message from Dr. Niwa

Medical Supervisor: Dr. Sakie Niwa

Director of Sakie Ladies Clinic

• Graduated from Nagoya City University Medical School, March 1991
• Employed at Nagoya National Hospital (currently National Hospital Organization Nagoya Medical Center), May 1991
• Employed at Nagoya City Johoku Hospital (currently Nagoya City University West Medical Center), April 1996
• Opened Sakie Ladies Clinic, January 2002

The main focus of my practice is the treatment of dyspareunia (painful intercourse). We provide treatment for women of all ages from all over the country who suffer from pain during intercourse. In addition to routine consultations, I conduct a wide range of activities such as providing sex education at middle schools, high schools, and universities, delivering lectures on Women's Health for the general female population, and offering sex education in juvenile detention centers.

Qualifications and Associations:

• Japan Medical Specialist Organization - Obstetrics and Gynecology Specialist
• Japan Society of Obstetrics and Gynecology (JSOG) - Obstetrics and Gynecology Specialist
• Japanese Society for Sexually Transmitted Infections (JSSTI) - Member
• Aichi Prefectural Obstetricians and Gynecologists Association - Executive Committee Member
• Aichi Prefectural Sex Education Association - Member
• NPO: PROUD LIFE - Auditor
• Aichi Adolescence Research Association - Co-representative
• Japan Society for Sexual Science - Executive Secretary
• Japan Society for Sexual Science - Certified Sex Therapist
• Partnership Promotion Association - Director
• Contraceptive Education Network - Member

Note: Products mentioned in the article are not endorsed by the physician.

2. What is the iroha koharu?

The iroha koharu is the first of its kind slim vibrator from iroha. Designed with a flower bud motif, the soft texture makes it comfortable enough for those who have never experienced sex, or are not used to insertable items.

The iroha koharu comes in two colors: the light pinkish koharu BENI and the gentle yellow koharu HINA.

Since it is waterproof and can be used up to a depth of 50 cm (20"), it can be used anywhere, even in the bath.

It is affordably priced iroha item to make it easy to try out, and recommended even for first-time self-pleasure item users.

Shop iroha koharu

3. Features of the iroha koharu

3.1 Recommended to help with insertion practice or to develop your ability to enjoy self-pleasure

The iroha koharu is an item for those who are unfamiliar or uncomfortable with insertion. It is designed to help lower the hurdle of trying penetration or insertion.

It is also recommended for those who feel nervous or stressful about insertion during penetrative sex, or those who easily feel anxious about intercourse.

The slender shape differs from the actual thickness of a penis, but is perfect for getting a feel for insertion and helping to find your most pleasurable erogenous zones.

Dr. Sakie Niwa:

"Some patients who suffer from painful intercourse use a vaginal dilator to help stretch the vaginal tissue. It can also be good to get used to insertion with a thin vibrator first. Being able to feel pleasure while using a vibrator is a definite plus."

3.2 Easy to use with a Wide Range of Vibration Strengths

In addition, the smooth vibration control means you can adjust vibrations in small increments for those concerned with sudden intensity increases.

With a wide range of vibrations, from gentle to powerful, it can be used not only by beginners of self-pleasure items, but also by those who are used to vibrators.

Find your favorite vibration strength and enjoy.

4. How to use the iroha koharu for Self-Pleasure

Let’s explain how to use the iroha koharu for self-pleasure.

Please use it to relax, to get used to the feeling of insertion, and to develop your ability to enjoy self-pleasure.

1. Clean your hands, fingers, and the iroha koharu
2. Get in the mood by touching it to various erogenous zones
3. Begin with clitoral stimulation
4. When the vagina is sufficiently naturally lubricated, insert the iroha koharu without turning it on at first. (Or use water-based lubricants)
5. Gently move the koharu in and out repeatedly
6. Gently rub and stimulate the vaginal walls to find pleasurable areas
7. When you get used to it, try turning on and moving the koharu around and explore the G-spot in order to get used to the sensation

For beginners and those with little or no experience with insertion, it is important to first get used to the sensation. Slowly insert the koharu and let your body get used to it. You can gradually find the spots that feel good to you.

Always make sure to use it in a way that feels comfortable to you.

5. Q&A with Dr. Sakie Niwa

Q1: Is there anything I should do to prepare for my first experience?

A: It's a good idea to be able to prepare by having a fun and positive image of sex. Watch videos made for women in order to maintain a positive impression of sex, which will help with not getting too nervous or anxious.

In addition, you could prepare in the following ways to make your first sexual experience more enjoyable:

1. Learn about your body through self-pleasure: It is not always the case that your partner can lead you during your first sexual experience. It's also important for women to know their own bodies through self-pleasure.

   It can be difficult to feel good with your first insertion experience, so it's important to communicate with your partner which spots feel best, that you discovered through self-pleasure.

   However, when it comes to self-pleasure, please be careful not to adopt positions that are unnatural or not common during actual sex, such as having your legs kept closed or methods that involve pressing against the floor. This is because there is a possibility that getting used to those positions will make it difficult to feel good during actual sex.

   It is recommended to use the vibrating part of the koharu to stimulate the clitoris, and try inserting the vibrator into the vagina when you feel ready.

2. Take care of your intimate areas: You may become concerned about odors and the color of your intimate areas, which may make it more difficult to relax during sex. Take care of your intimate areas using soap and moisturizing items specifically formulated for this purpose.
3. Don't forget about contraception and getting tested for STIs: For your first time having sex, don’t forget about contraception. Please use a method that suits you, such as taking low-dose contraceptive pills or using condoms. Also, if your partner has had other sexual partners, it could be reassuring if they get tested for STIs in advance.

Q2: Are there ways to make sex less painful?

A: If you feel pain during sex, it could be due to ① tension or anxiety, ② pain from friction with the penis, or perhaps ③ some other mental or physical condition.

① Tension or Anxiety: When you feel tension or anxiety, your body stiffens up and it becomes difficult for your vagina to produce enough natural lubrication, so it is recommended to use a lubricant. Also, it would be good to talk to your partner about any anxieties or concerns you may have about sex. Communicate directly with your partner. Tell them specifically what you want them to do, such as "I want you to caress me here" or "I want you to hug me before you put it in."

It's also a good idea to use pleasure items during sex to help ease tension and anxiety. Don't be shy, just tell your partner.

② Pain from Friction: If you feel pain from the friction of the penis, you can try using different positions. The cowgirl position is recommended because the woman can move at her own pace.

If the pain persists even after changing positions, please consult a medical professional.

6. A Message from Dr. Niwa

Dr. Niwa has actually used the iroha koharu and supervised the writing of this article. In response to questions from beginners and those with little or no experience with insertion, we would like to share a message we received from Dr. Niwa.

NOTE: The statements in this article are not an endorsement of the product.

Sex is one method of communication. I believe that sex should be something that makes you feel secure, safe, and happy.

Instead of feeling bad about being afraid of sex or not being able to do it, approach the issue with a positive attitude and remember that your concerns can be addressed and improved upon.

Also, sex is something you do with your partner, but it’s important that it feels good for you, and not only for your partner.

Sex is not about leaving everything to your partner, but about finding your pleasure spots and engaging in ways that feel good for both of you.

Pleasure items can allow you to enjoy yourself, and let your partner feel good as well.