Guide to Anal Sex Toys: 6 Types of Anal Toys

Anal sex toys stimulate the nerve endings inside your anus. For penis owners, some anal sex toys are designed to stimulate the prostate. For vulva owners, anal sex toys can apply pressure to the anterior fornix erogenous zone, also known as the A-spot, located inside the vagina between the cervix and the bladder. Anal sex toys are typically made from a non-porous material like medical-grade silicone, glass, or stainless steel. When safely used, anal sex toys can bring an entirely new element to a sexual encounter or anal masturbation session, bringing you closer to an anal orgasm.

If you’re curious about anal play, consider using one of these anal sex toys to explore different sensations in your sex life.

1. 1. Anal beads: Anal beads are spheres—typically made with silicone, glass, or stainless steel—joined together along a cord, usually with a loop at the end for easy retrieval. Anal beads are designed to stimulate your nerves upon removal. For optimal use, try pulling them out right as you climax. For beginners, anal beads are a great introduction to anal play. Remember to apply a generous amount of lubrication before every use, and reapply regularly.
2. 2. Butt plugs: Anal plugs are designed to be inserted into the anus and remain there during sexual activity. In order to make insertion easier, butt plugs are narrow at the tip and wider in the middle. The end of the plug typically has a slimmer neck followed by a flared base for safety. Butt plugs can be smooth or textured, and some vibrate for extra stimulation. The highest-quality plugs are usually made with a non-porous material, like silicone or stainless steel. If you are curious to try anal sex with your partner, butt plugs are a way to get your sphincter muscles used to the sensation. Consider anal training kits, which include several plugs of varying sizes.
3. 3. Anal dildos: Anal dildos stimulate the erogenous zones inside your anal cavity. Anal dildos typically have a slight curve and a wider base, and some are designed to be attached to a harness and used for pegging. For vulva owners, anal dildos can create the sensation of double penetration during intercourse. Consider starting with a smaller sex toy like anal beads before moving up to dildos.
4. 4. Prostate massagers: A prostate massager stimulates the prostate gland, which is a walnut-sized organ that rests under the bladder and above the base of the penis. Prostate massagers usually have smooth, rounded tips for easy insertion. Most are curved in order to press against the part of the rectum that rests against the prostate, also known as the P-spot. Some prostate massagers include a vibration mode. Others are designed with an external component that presses against the perineum, the area between the anus and scrotum, providing additional stimulation to your prostate from the outside.
5. 5. Inflatable anal toys: Inflatable anal toys are similar to butt plugs, but they include a hand pump. Once the plug is inserted, you can gently pump it for a fuller sensation. Inflatable anal toys allow you to safely stretch your anus to a desirable level. If the toy feels too intense or large, you can quickly deflate and remove it.
6. 6. Anal hooks: Typically used in BDSM play, anal hooks are curved metal rods, usually in the shape of a J. They often have a ball on the shorter curved side for anal insertion, and a ring on the opposite side for attachment to a rope. Anal hooks, similar to some other BDSM toys, are designed to hold the wearer in a submissive position.

Good hygiene practices are essential for safe anal play. In order to avoid spreading sexually transmitted infections or bacteria that naturally live in the anus, be sure to clean your anal toys before and after each use with warm water and mild soap or sex toy cleaner.

When choosing an anal sex toy, be sure to look for one with a looped handle or flared base. This ensures that the toy won’t accidentally slip into your rectum. Anal toys also require lubrication since the anus does not produce lubrication naturally.

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