Dripstick Awkward Essentials After-Sex Sponge
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One aspect of penis-in-vagina (PIV) sex that often goes unmentioned is its messiness, particularly for the person with the vagina.
The discharge of sexual fluids after intercourse can lead to several complications often exaggerated by bad timing. Among them are stained sheets and squishy pants.
That’s why Frances Tang developed the dripstick Awkward Essentials after-sex sponge.
The sponge-like tampon is designed to absorb post-sex fluids. Her company Awkward Essentials, previously known as come&gone, secured $2.3 million in seed funding on March 31, 2021.
With the investment, Tang then joined a small population of women who are backed by venture dollars. For reference, in 2020, only 2.4% of overall venture funding went to solo female founders.
The Dripstick Awkward Essentials after-sex sponge
Tang was inspired to create the dripstick by her experience with post-sex cleanup and, surprisingly, by a stint working at a bakery. At this job, she would often use a rubber spatula to clean batter out of bowls.
The spatula inspired her to imagine a similar object that could be used to clean sex fluids out of the vagina. “In short,” said Tang, “the idea for the dripstick started at the intersection of baking and laziness.”
The Dripstick is a type of sponge designed to absorb semen and other fluids that may leak out of the vagina after sexual intercourse. It is intended to help reduce the risk of leakage and staining on clothing or bedding.
To use the Dripstick, you insert it into the vagina after sex and leave it in place for a few minutes to absorb any fluids. Then, you remove it and dispose of it in the trash.
The Dripstick is made from a soft, absorbent material and is designed to be comfortable to use. It is available for purchase online and does not require a prescription.
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How to use the Dripstick after sex sponge
Using the dripstick Awkward Essentials post-sex sponge is simple.
The absorbent sponge has a handle that can be gripped to safely insert the sponge into the vagina. Once inserted, the sponge is rotated gently to soak up any fluids that remain inside the body. The dripstick can then be removed, leaving the vagina free of most post-sex fluids.
The Dripstick Awkward Essentials after-sex sponge is generally considered safe for use, but as with any product, there are some precautions and warnings to be aware of. Here are a few things to keep in mind:
- Do not use the Dripstick as a form of contraception: The Dripstick Awkward Essentials post-sex sponge is not intended to be used as a method of birth control, and it does not protect against sexually transmitted infections. If you are sexually active and do not wish to become pregnant or contract an STI, it’s important to use an appropriate form of protection.
- Do not reuse the Dripstick: The Dripstick is designed to be used once and then disposed of. Do not attempt to clean or reuse the sponge, as this could increase the risk of infection.
- Do not use the Dripstick if you have an allergy or sensitivity to any of the ingredients: The Dripstick is made from a soft, absorbent material and is free of fragrances, dyes, and harsh chemicals. However, if you have a known allergy or sensitivity to any of the ingredients, you should avoid using the product.
- Discontinue use if you experience any discomfort or irritation: While the Dripstick Awkward Essentials after-sex clean up sponge is designed to be comfortable to use, some individuals may experience discomfort or irritation. If you experience any pain, itching, or burning while using the Dripstick, remove it immediately and consult with a healthcare provider.
It’s always a good idea to talk to a healthcare provider before using any new products, especially if you have a history of allergies, sensitivities, or other health conditions.
The dripstick is only available for purchase directly from the Awkward Essentials website. It comes in bundles of 10 for $15, 20 for $25, or 69 for $69. For those who might want to try out the product before committing to a 10-pack, a sample package of 3 dripsticks is available for $3.
The product has over 300 5-star reviews—many reviewers rave about the fact that they only need to use one dripstick to feel completely drip-free.
The future of Dripstick Awkward Essentials
Since earning its seed funding, the sexual wellness Awkward Essentials brand has expanded its product line to include a pee funnel, hand towels, and merch.
Over the last several years, it has become clear that female creators and entrepreneurs utilize their own often uncomfortable and largely undiscussed experiences to create meaningful sex-related products. With women like Tang continuing to create unique products designed specifically for people with vaginas, the destigmatization of sexual taboos seems imminent.
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