Anal Toys

What is an anal toy?

It is a toy designed to stimulate the entrance of the anus or to be inserted into it. This area has many nerve endings in any body. For people with a prostate, pressure towards the front wall of the rectum reaches it, which is why some models are curved for that area. What sets an anal toy apart from any other dildo or vibrator is the base. The rectum has no end that stops the toy the way the vagina does, so it needs a flared base or a handle to keep it from slipping inside. If you are looking for vaginal penetration, try dildos or vibrators instead.

Types of anal toys

The category is divided into four groups, depending on what you want to do:

There are also anal vibrators (some inflatable, heated or rotating), glass massagers and multi-piece dilator sets that go from smallest to largest.

• Prostate massagers: curved to press on the prostate; many vibrate and some are controlled by remote or app.
• Butt plugs: teardrop-shaped, with a narrow neck and a wide base, and worn for a while, whether you are playing alone, with a partner or doing something else; available in silicone, glass and metal, with vibration and in sets of several sizes.
• Anal beads and strings: beads in a row, joined by a cord or a flexible rod; they are inserted one at a time, and many people find the sensation most intense when they are removed.
• Anal douches: bulbs or bottles with a nozzle to rinse inside with water before play.

Safety and care

Use only toys with a flared base, a ring or a long handle, because anything without a stop can end up stuck inside. In a US emergency department registry of 885 cases of objects retained in the rectum, 55.4% were sex devices (Loria et al., 2023, Am J Emerg Med).

The anus does not lubricate itself, so you need plenty of lubricant and should reapply it if it dries out. Anal lubricants tend to be thicker and last longer. With silicone toys, use a water-based one, because silicone-based lubricants can damage the surface. With glass or metal, any type works.

Wash the toy before and after use with warm water and mild soap or a toy cleaner, and let it air dry. Silicone, glass and steel are non-porous and can be cleaned thoroughly. TPR, PVC and rubber are more porous, so it is best to use them with a condom. Do not move a toy from the anus to the vagina without washing it first or changing the condom.

How to choose

• Base: wide, noticeably wider than the part that goes in, or with a long handle you can hold securely.
• Size: the product details give the insertable length and the maximum diameter; to start, go for the slimmest or a set with several sizes so you can work up.
• Material: silicone, glass or steel if you want something smooth and easy to clean; if the product details do not state the material, ask before you buy.
• Shape: straight or teardrop for the anus; curved forwards if you are after the prostate.
• Water: «fully waterproof (submersible)» for use in the shower; «water-resistant» or «splashproof» only withstands a little water.
• Battery and control: for vibrating toys, check whether they are rechargeable, how many modes they have and whether they come with a remote or app, which is handy for playing with a partner.

Anal toys: frequently asked questions

What is the best anal toy for beginners?

A small silicone butt plug with a flared base, or a dilator set with several sizes. Go slowly, with plenty of lubricant, and do not move up to the next size until the previous one feels comfortable.

Does using an anal toy hurt?

It should not. At first it is normal to feel pressure or mild discomfort, but if it hurts, stop. Often there is not enough lubricant or relaxation, or the toy is too big for that moment.

What lubricant should I use with anal toys?

A thick water-based one or an anal lubricant; with glass or metal toys, a silicone-based one also works. If you are also using a latex condom, avoid petroleum jelly and oils, because they weaken it.

Do I need to use an anal douche first?

It is not necessary. Many people prefer to use the toilet and wash externally. A douche is for those who want to feel more at ease: warm water alone is enough, without soap, and it is best not to repeat it many times in a row.

How long can I wear a butt plug?

At first, a few minutes. You can then gradually extend this as long as you feel comfortable. If you notice discomfort or numbness, take it out.

Are anal toys only for men?

No. Butt plugs, beads and anal vibrators are used by women and men, alone or with a partner. Only prostate massagers are designed for people who have a prostate.

Can I boil an anal toy?

Only if it has no motor and the product details allow it, as with some silicone, glass or steel toys. Never boil vibrating ones, because they contain a motor and battery; for those, use warm water and mild soap.

Are glass anal toys safe?

Yes, if they are made for intimate use and have no cracks or chips; check them before each use. Glass is smooth and heavier than silicone. You can warm or cool it a little with water, avoiding sudden temperature changes.

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