Yoni Egg

A yoni egg (also called a jade egg) is a smooth, egg-shaped crystal or stone meant to be inserted into the vagina for supposed spiritual, sexual, and physical benefits, particularly related to pelvic floor strengthening and sexual energy. While historically linked to ancient Chinese practices, modern medical professionals generally advise against their use due to potential health risks and lack of scientific evidence supporting their claimed benefits.

What is a Yoni Egg

A Yoni Egg, also known as a jade egg or love egg, is a smooth, egg-shaped crystal or stone designed for vaginal insertion. The term "yoni" comes from Sanskrit, meaning "sacred space" or "sacred temple," often referring to the vagina. These eggs are typically made from various crystals or semi-precious stones and have gained popularity in recent years as tools for sexual wellness and spiritual practices.

History and Cultural Origins

Traditional Chinese Medicine Roots

Yoni eggs allegedly originated in ancient China, where they were said to be used by concubines in the Royal Palace during the Han Dynasty. According to these historical claims, the practice was kept secret and reserved for queens and royal concubines as a way to maintain sexual health and spiritual well-being. However, many historians dispute these claims, noting limited historical evidence supporting widespread use in ancient China.

Modern Wellness Movement Adoption

The contemporary popularity of yoni eggs emerged during the New Age movement of the 1970s and experienced a significant resurgence in the 2010s through celebrity endorsements and wellness influencers. Modern practitioners have integrated these tools into various spiritual and sexual wellness practices, often combining elements of Eastern mysticism with Western sexual health concepts.

Physical Properties

Materials and Types

Yoni eggs are commonly crafted from various crystals and stones, with jade being the most traditional choice. Other popular materials include rose quartz, obsidian, and black onyx. Each material is believed to possess different energetic properties and healing capabilities. The stones are carefully shaped and polished to ensure smoothness and safety.

Sizes and Shapes

These eggs typically come in three sizes: large (45x30mm), medium (40x25mm), and small (30x20mm). The classic egg shape features a wider end that tapers to a narrower point, with some varieties including a small hole drilled through the length for string attachment. Beginners usually start with larger sizes, which are easier to insert and remove, progressing to smaller sizes as they become more experienced.

Claimed Benefits and Uses

Pelvic Floor Strengthening

Proponents claim that yoni eggs can help strengthen the pelvic floor muscles through resistance training. The idea is that holding the egg inside the vagina requires conscious muscle engagement, similar to Kegel exercises. This strengthening may potentially help with bladder control and sexual function.

Spiritual and Energetic Claims

Many practitioners believe that different crystals carry unique energetic properties that can promote emotional healing, spiritual growth, and sexual awakening. Some users report experiencing enhanced meditation, improved emotional release, and stronger connections to their feminine energy through regular practice.

Sexual Wellness Applications

Users often report increased sexual sensitivity, enhanced lubrication, and stronger orgasms through regular yoni egg practice. The eggs are said to help develop greater awareness of vaginal muscles and improve sexual response through better muscle control.

Safety Considerations

Material Safety

It's crucial to use eggs made from body-safe, non-porous materials. Genuine jade and other crystals should be certified for purity and tested for toxins. Porous stones can harbor bacteria and should be avoided. Some practitioners recommend medical-grade silicone alternatives for safer practice.

Hygiene and Cleaning

Proper cleaning is essential for safe use. Eggs should be thoroughly sanitized before and after each use with mild soap and warm water or specialized crystal cleaners. Some practitioners also recommend energetic cleansing methods like moonlight exposure or smudging, though these have no scientific backing for hygiene purposes.

Risk Factors

Extended use of yoni eggs may pose risks including bacterial infections, toxic shock syndrome if left in too long, and potential injury from improper use. People with certain pelvic health conditions, pregnant individuals, and those with IUDs should consult healthcare providers before use.

Medical Perspectives

Scientific Research

Limited scientific research exists on the effectiveness of yoni eggs. While pelvic floor exercises are medically supported, no peer-reviewed studies specifically validate the benefits of yoni eggs. Some medical professionals express concern about potential risks and the lack of standardization in materials and practices.

Healthcare Provider Views

Many gynecologists and pelvic health specialists advise caution with yoni eggs, emphasizing that traditional Kegel exercises can provide similar benefits without the associated risks. Some medical professionals actively discourage their use, citing concerns about material safety and potential complications.

Controversy and Criticism

The practice has faced significant criticism from medical professionals and consumer protection groups, particularly regarding unsubstantiated health claims and concerns about product safety. Several companies have faced legal challenges for making unsupported medical claims about yoni eggs' benefits.

Proper Usage Guidelines

Insertion and Removal

The egg should be inserted with the larger end first, using plenty of water-based lubricant. Some eggs come with a string attached for easier removal. Users should never force insertion or removal, and should always practice gentle, mindful movements.

Duration and Frequency

Beginners should start with short sessions of 5-15 minutes. Advanced practitioners might extend this to 30 minutes or longer, but eggs should never be worn overnight or for extended periods. Practice should be avoided during menstruation, pregnancy, or active infections.

Maintenance and Care

Regular inspection for chips, cracks, or damage is essential. Eggs should be stored in a clean, dry place and replaced if any damage is detected. Some practitioners recommend recharging their crystals in sunlight or moonlight, though this serves spiritual rather than practical purposes.

Alternative Options

Medical Alternatives

Traditional Kegel exercises, pelvic floor physical therapy, and medical-grade devices designed for pelvic floor strengthening offer evidence-based alternatives. These options often come with professional guidance and clear safety protocols.

Other Pelvic Floor Exercises

Various alternatives exist for pelvic floor strengthening, including specialized exercise programs, biofeedback devices, and professional pelvic floor therapy. These methods often provide more controlled and measurable results compared to yoni egg practice.

Examples

Sarah had been experiencing weak pelvic floor muscles after childbirth and decided to incorporate a jade yoni egg into her wellness routine. She started with the largest size egg for 15 minutes daily, gradually working up to longer sessions as she became more comfortable with the practice.

A holistic wellness instructor teaches a workshop on sacred feminine practices, where she demonstrates proper yoni egg techniques using anatomical models. She emphasizes the importance of using certified body-safe stones and explains how to properly clean and care for the egg between uses.

During a women's healing circle, participants discuss their experiences with various yoni practices. One member shares how using a rose quartz yoni egg during meditation helped her develop a more positive relationship with her body after sexual trauma, though she notes that she consulted with her therapist and gynecologist before starting the practice.

FAQ

What is a Yoni Egg and what is it used for?

A Yoni Egg (also called a Jade Egg) is a smooth, egg-shaped stone traditionally made from jade or other crystals that is meant to be inserted into the vagina. Historically used in Chinese medicine and Taoist practices, these eggs are marketed for strengthening pelvic floor muscles, improving sexual energy, and promoting spiritual wellness. However, it's important to note that many of these claims are not scientifically proven.

Are Yoni Eggs safe to use?

Medical professionals generally advise against using Yoni Eggs due to several safety concerns. The porous nature of stones like jade can harbor bacteria even after cleaning, potentially leading to infections. Additionally, leaving any object in the vagina for extended periods can disrupt the natural pH balance and bacterial flora. For pelvic floor exercises, healthcare providers recommend Kegel exercises instead.

How do you clean and care for a Yoni Egg?

If you choose to use a Yoni Egg despite medical cautions, proper cleaning is crucial. Clean the egg thoroughly with mild, unscented soap and warm water before and after each use. Boiling is not recommended as it can damage the stone. Some sellers suggest charging the egg in moonlight or sunlight, but this has no scientific backing for sanitization. Always inspect the egg for chips or cracks before use, as damaged eggs can cause injury.

What's better for pelvic floor exercises: Yoni Eggs or Kegel exercises?

Kegel exercises are the medically recommended method for strengthening pelvic floor muscles. Unlike Yoni Eggs, Kegels are free, proven effective through research, and carry no risk of infection or injury. While some people report benefits from Yoni Eggs, there's no scientific evidence supporting their effectiveness over traditional Kegel exercises, which can be done safely without any tools or devices.