There's a small revolution going on in the sex industry. Although the old-fashioned, hard, penis-shaped vibes are still available, manufacturers have been concentrating on improving the design and texture of vibrators. One of the most popular designs, a dual-action model, vibrates the clitoris while simultaneously probing the vagina.

Another new innovation is the pulsating vibrator, pulsation for some women being integral to their orgasm, especially for G-spot stimulation. With a changeable-head vibrator you can vary the intensity of pressure and stimulation, as well as having variable speeds.

For women who have difficulty climaxing during intercourse, there's a strap-on model that's held in place over the clitoris to provide extra stimulation while the man penetrates the vagina.

The tiny finger vibrator is one of the most ingenious of the new sex toys. It's good for surprises during intercourse, since it's virtually undetectable. Some kits include textured rubber pads for varying finger sensation.

Dildos have been used as sex toys since time immemorial. They are non-vibrating, and are designed for vaginal or anal penetration by women or men. A dildo may be held in the hand, or slipped into a harness that is worn around the hips. The benefit of this is that the wearer keeps his or her hands free for other stimulating activity.

Some models fit into a vibrating cock ring, which provides clitoral stimulation at the same time. There are also double dildos available, which work in a push-pull fashion, and enable you and your partner to enjoy vaginal or anal penetration simultaneously.

The cock ring fits around the base of the penis. Its tight grip restricts blood from flowing back out of the penis, thus strengthening the erection and giving the feeling of fullness and pressure. The more fun versions vibrate, and have various bumps and protrusions on them to stimulate during intercourse.

Lubes enable wonderful, warm, slippery sex, and are a great help for some women at certain 'dry' times of the month. They are also essential for all anal play, since the anus doesn't provide a natural lubricant. Lubes come in all colours, textures and scents.

For sheer variety, you might consider edible lubes, which are small gelatine-filled capsules that you bite on during oral sex to flood your partner's genitals with sweet-smelling, edible gel (chocolate flavour is a popular choice).

Several vibrators are specially designed to penetrate the anus comfortably and massage the super-sensitive prostate gland situated at the far end. The anal wand is ideal for those who like a feeling of pressure combined with vibration and movement. Vibrating anal toys help relax the anal muscles if tense, and can be immensely pleasurable.

Butt plugs are used in the anus or vagina, and are designed to be worn for a feeling of fullness. They are made in silicone or rubber and are available in a variety of shapes and sizes. There is a long, thin, pointed plug, a shorter, fatter slightly curved version, and a small squat, beaded version.

Anal beads consist of several small balls attached together, which are inserted into the anus and then removed with varying speeds depending on the effect desired. As with all anal sexual activity, the anal beads and the rectum should be well lubricated to prevent injury.

A blindfold offers a sense of helplessness and makes you feel vulnerable. Your mind starts racing as you imagine the hazards that lie outside and your anxiety begins to rise. It's these swirling emotions that the astute partner tunes into and utilizes - generally, the greater the anxiety level, the more intense the emotions.

Unless you know that your partner is into really serious bondage, it's best to use restraints made of soft fabrics, such as a man's silky tie, or the silky cord from a dressing gown. Alternatively, most of the sex-toy manufacturers sell 'safe' handcuffs, specially designed for the purpose of sexy play.