Vibrators sold at chemists to promote 'sexual health'

SEX toys are being sold next to pain relief and cough medicine by some major chemist chains, sparking criticism from family groups.

Family-friendly stores Priceline and National Pharmacies are stocking vibrators at selected stores, saying it is no different from selling other sex-related products such as Viagra and condoms.

The battery-powered playthings have even featured in a National Pharmacies' Mother's Day catalogue.

The Australian Family Association has called for the vibrators, sold at selected stores in low-key packaging, to be removed.

Spokesman John Morrissey said children visiting the stores should not be exposed to sex products.

"There's only one use for them and that's not a habit we want to encourage in teenage girls," he said.

"If these products belong anywhere it's in an adult sex shop that people don't want to be seen entering."

National Pharmacies general manager of merchandising Neil Retallick said the products had satisfied the needs of "literally hundreds" since going on sale.

"(The vibrators) are really important for a lot of people," he said.

"Pharmacy has been for generations a contributor to the sexual health of the community."

A Priceline spokesman said selling vibrators was no different from selling other sexual health products.

"We sell a range of these products, including condoms," he said.

"People do go to the pharmacy for advice on these types of sexual health issues."

The vibrators, made by condom manufacturer Durex, retail for up to $129 and have been in stock for about two years.

In 2004, British health retailer Boots was forced to back down after plans to sell vibrators caused a customer backlash.

Source: http://www.news.com.au/heraldsun/story/0,21985,25418747-2862,00.html